Rampage Spring 2011 Issue 4

Rampage ampage R SCCCDSTUDENTS STUDENTSRALLY RALLYFOR FOR SCCCD COMMUNITYCOLLEGE COLLEGEFUNDING FUNDING COMMUNITY VOICES OF FCC

pageDETOUR 11 GRADUATION

Is graduation still possible?

AMERICA SPREADS DEMOCRACY? SEE PAGE XYZ

page 10

Does America Support Freedom?

VIEWS

SEE PAGE 16

VOICES OF FCC

page 6

FCC Students Rally

page 5

SEEStudents PAGE 5 Foreign Worry

NEWS

Fresno SPECIAL SPECIALEDITION EDITION STORIES STORIES City College

March 16, 2011

Photo by Abel Cortez

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News

March 16, 2011

Campus Briefs

By Max Rosendahl Rampage Reporter

Farewell Party for Dr. Azari The SCCCD district will bid farewell to Dr. Cynthia Azari on March 23 at 2 p.m. in the OAB. Please call the Public Information office for more information.

or think that you may be entitled to your refund, you may collect it in the College Business Offices in room A-109 of the Old Administration Building. FCC spokeperson insists,“It is the student’s responsibility, not the instructor’s responsibility”, to opt for a refund.

More information can be found at fresnocitycollege.edu.

his diverse talents to more recent performances with James Taylor, Natalie Cole and Queen Latifah, and most notably with the Legendary Joni Mitchell on her current four-disc set and her 2007 Grammy winning, Shine. He also played on a live studio video with Mitchell and Herbie Handcock.

You can purchase tickets online at www.fresnocitycollege.edu/ boxofficetickets. Contact Mike Dana at 442-4600, ext. 8463 or visit the City Jazz Festival website for more info.

Jazz Festival Student Refund City Come see Bob Sheppard @ the Reminder City Jazz Festival Mar. 24, 2011 Smoking Debate Students who drop classes previous to the refund date (two weeks after the class began) are entitled to a reimbursement. It is estimated that nearly a $million go unclaimed each year. When funds are not collected by students, they are recycled back into the Fresno City’s “General Fund.” However, if you are not in a charitable mood

at 7:30. It costs $15 for general admission, $12 for students, staff, seniors 55 and older, and JazzFresno Members. Sheppard has been a steadfast member of the Billy Childs Ensembles and the Peter Erskine trio for over a decade. Additionally over the years, he has toured with Steely Dan and Boz Scaggs, and brought

The Fresno City College Associated Student Government will be holding its second debate today to decide whether or not the smoking policy will be changed today.

The debate will be held in the Old Administration Building in room 251 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The debate will follow the same format as the Fall Semester, with

BUDGET IN CRISIS: THE ‘UNDECIDED FIVE’

By Sammy “Pro” Loproto Rampage Reporter California’s budget mess gets stranger by the day. Time is running out for lawmakers in Sacramento to reach an agreement with Gov. Jerry Brown about a proposed tax increase extension on the June ballot. Brown’s self imposed deadline of March 10 has come and gone; the only certainty is a lack of consensus on the outcome.

Most of California’s top lawmakers have separated themselves from the ’undecided five’. Senators Tom Berryhill, Sam Blakeslee, Anthony Cannella, Bill Emmerson, and Tom Harman -- the Republican Senators who have yet to commit to Gov. Brown’s efforts to place the tax increase extensions on the June ballot.

According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, legislators most vocal in their criticism of Gov. Brown are the same ones arranging backroom deals with him. Sen. Bob Dutton, the Republican minority

Fresno City College

leader in the state Senate, who has been critical of Gov. Brown’s budget plan from the start reportedly assigned two staff members to facilitate negotiations between the ‘undecided five’ and Brown.

The bait? State pension reform for public employees.

If the players can negotiate enough changes, some of the ‘five’ may agree to support Brown and his plan to ask voters to decide on the tax increase extensions. A compromise could be days away, but as of Monday, the ‘undecided’ are still holding their ground. Still, reports of a break down surfaced late last week.

Republican state Senator Tom Harman said talks are stalling.”Basically the ball is in his [Brown’s]court,” Harman told Reuters. “He knows where we are.”

Brown spokesman Gil Duran disputed that talks were breaking down. “They’re going to keep talking,” Duran said. Additionally, state Senate President Pro Tem, Darrell

Steinberg, a top Democratic lawmaker, said work on California’s budget would continue.

Harman said his group had been pressing hard in negotiations for a spending cap, easing regulations and an overhaul of the state’s pension system. “He had problems with each of those major areas,” Harman said.

Students March Around the State

Meanwhile, student government offices around the state sponsored their students’ convoys up to the state capitol in Sacramento on Monday to voice their concerns about the budget situation. California’s Community College students were determined to have their voices heard. Up to 20,000 students from more than 91 colleges were expected to participate in the ‘March in March’ event, that rallies for Community College funding, which is being curtailed.

In Fresno, the Associated Student Government sponsored a

Rampage

speakers representing different sides of the debate.

However, there will be three podiums at this debate. The speaker at one will be representing the side that is in favor of banning smoking on campus. Another will represent those who would prefer that the rule stays as is. The other podium and its speaker will be representing those in the middle who would create designated areas.

Students who attend the debate will be encouraged to ask questions and participate in the discussions in order to help the ASG decide which policy will best reflect what the students of FCC want.

KVPR Spotlight

Young Artists will be featured on KVPR Vocalists from FCC on March 9 at 3:00 p.m. FCC’s music department will be featured heavily this month on KVPR 89.3, Valley Public Radio’s Young Artist Spotlight, Wednesdays at 3 p.m. rally, which was a cry for ‘unity in the community.’ Due to budget restraints, ASG was not able to coordinate the bus to Sacramento, and held the rally at the Courthouse Park in Downtown Fresno on Monday. Student organizations and clubs offered information and speakers at the event. Student organizers were able to produce over 500 letters of protest, and these were hand-delivered to Sen. Berryhill personally, by Dr. Teresa Patterson, Executive Director of Legislative Affairs for the State Center Community College District.

California’s Community Colleges are getting already for an upcoming rally, called Hands Across California, which will take place on April 17, and commemorates the original event, Hands Across America’s 25th anniversary. Approximately 1.5 million people are expected to participate, with nearly all of the state’s 112 community colleges expected to take part in the event. This will include a 1,500 mile human chain, going from San Diego through the Central Valley, connecting Sacramento and San Francisco.

About Us

The Rampage is an award-winning newspaper published biweekly by the Fresno City College Journalism 4 & 5 programs and is a member of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges. Views expressed in The Rampage are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of Fresno City College, its students, administration or the State Center Community College District.

Reporters

Editors Managing Editor: Sydney Excinia News Editor: Alyssa Diaz Views Editor: Dylan Domingos Entertainment/Online Editor: Max Rosendahl Photo Editor: Paul Schlesinger Roaming Editor: Emilio Gutierrez Art Director: Austin Verburg Business Manager: Annette Dedios Copy Editor: Karina Ornelas Faculty Adviser: Dympna Ugwu-Oju

Nathan A. Alonzo Tutmoses Brown Abel Cortez Alyssa Diaz Marcel Dilworth Dylan Domingos Daniel Engelhaupt Sydney Excinia Jesse Franz Sendy Garcia Emillio Gutierrez Jessica Harrington Dominique Hernandez Crystal Hodges

Tomas Kassahun Frank Lopez Samuel “Pro” Loproto Iesha Mendez Karina Ornelas Brendan Raley Katrina Richards Dustin Rocha Philip Romar Max Rosendahl Paul Schlesinger Lyssette Trujillio William Austin Verburg Alexis Abrahamson

Contacts Rampage Office rampage-business@fresnocitycollege.edu Adviser dympna.ugwu-oju@fresnocitycollege.edu

Fresno City College 1101 E. University Ave. Fresno, CA 93741 Office: (559) 442-8262 Fax: (559) 265-5783

Visit our web site for updates www.FresnoCityCollegeRampage.com

Apology March 2, 2011 In it’s last issue, the Rampage published, “Let me In” by Iesha Mendez. We have since learned that parts of the review were plagiarized. We sincerely regret publishing this piece and apologize for whatever damages this has caused.

-The Rampage Staff

Online Stories Colloquium:

The Dilemmas of Downtown Fresno

By Frank Lopez Rampage Reporter The “Dilemmas of Downtown Fresno: What is to be done?” was the subject of Monday’s colloquium in the Skylight Room at Fresno City College. Panelists -- Victoria Gonzalez, owner of Downtown Properties; Brian Calhoun, FCC instructor and former Fresno City Council member, and Fresno Bee reporter, George Hostetter – discussed issues surrounding Downtown Fresno’s revitalization efforts.

Turmoil in Japan

How FCC is impacted

By Crystal Hodges and Katrina Richards Rampage Reporters Fresno City College students say the earthquake and Tsunami in Japan are touching them personally. Some students with friends and family in Japan said they are concerned about the level of devastation and speculations of a possible nuclear explosion or meltdown.

Read these and more on our website.

News ers from other State Community College Center District campuses, Rampage Reporter and individuals who simply supStudents of Fresno City College port community college districts. and other members of the Fresno The event was meant to raise community gathered on Monday awareness to the community at Courthouse Park to highlight about how severely the college the dangers of decreased fund- will be affected if the possible $6 ing for the community college million budget cuts were impledistrict. mented.

The rally, organized by the “Community Colleges affect FCC Associated Student Gov- the community,” said ASG Legernment, was attended by 400 to islative Vice President Rebecca 500 people, according to ASG. Ashjian. “If we get cut, then it Attending the event were various affects the work forces that come clubs from FCC as well as othout from our community colleges.”

F C C personally contributes to a large amount of the work f o r c e .

Eighty percent of local nurses come from FCC, and FCC students and community members at the Rally for the budget Community Unity at courthouse park on Monday.

Photo By Paul Schlesinger

cuts could see the nursing programs cut as well, according to James Holden of the FCC Nursing Program.

During the rally, a banner as well as many letters were signed by attendees. These were taken up to Senator Tom Berryhill, whom the rally intended to gain the support of, at the state capital after the rally. The day’s events consisted of ASG members giving information concerning how the cuts will harm the community, as well as several speakers and performances from various clubs that attended the event.

Puente Club member Ivan Guiterrez played the guitar as the FCC mascot Sam the Ram danced along to it. This was followed by a traditional Mexican folkloric dance performed by members Ana Caballero and Denise Mendoza, both of whom are FCC alumni. They said they came out to show our support for what the community colleges are going through right now with the budget cuts.

Later, speaker Fernesser Achuo

of the Pan African Student Union spoke about how important it was to stand together for the community colleges is.

“Community college is a pyramid that’s meant to stand for 100 years,” said Achuo.

After many different speakers told their stories, the Reedley College Tiger mascot went up against the FCC mascot in a dance off to the song “Teach Community Member, Mauro Camera, during Me How To Dougie.” the rally at courthouse park on Monday.

Other performances included the FCC Gospel Choir said M.E.Ch.A. member Cindy who sang two songs, followed Quiralte. “This is our education. by the FCC Folklorico Club who This is our future.”

President Cynthia Azari, who contributed a dance performance attended the Rally for Community to the day’s events.

Amongst those who attend- Unity, said she felt positive about ed was a group of M.E.Ch.A. how the event will help unite the members, who pushed the event Fresno community. “I think it’s a more as a protest and less as a good first step. As people come rally, holding picket signs to raise out hear the speakers and listen, awareness of the dark times that it’ll encourage them to investigate can ensue if the budget cuts take and to look into what is the real message we are trying to get to their toll.

“This is a very serious thing,” the community.”

Photo By Paul Schlesinger

Rally For Community Unity

By Austin Verburg

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March 16, 2011

The “Untouchables”:Finding Hope Imagine living under an abandoned overpass. It is dark, cold, and the neighbors are no longer friends, but foes who will break into your tent to steal your rag-tag possessions.

Clothes, warm water, plumbing, transportation, food, all of the necessities of life are no out of reach. You slowly degenerate to a primitive lifestyle, slowly losing sanity, self respect, livelihood, and even a right to a birth name.

“You don’t want to meet anyone out here. Everyone looks at what you have and if you don’t watch it, it’ll be gone in a second,” said Ben Williams, a man living in tent city after going through a divorce and turning to alcohol to ease his pain.

Where is the light at the end of the tunnel?

The Fresno Metro Ministry website lists a number of organizations that help the homeless.

For a handful of Fresno County’s homeless population, there is hope for a better life. Organizations such as the Povorello House and the Fresno Rescue Mission dedicate their days to making sure the homeless are fed and safe. Other groups provide essentials – warm meals and bath, toiletries, clothing or kind words. Most people give willingly to the homeless. But, the community can always do more.

In the previous “Untouchables” articles one may find the first step to helping the homeless, and that is to become aware of who and what homeless is. Becoming educated to understand the differences to the meaning of homelessness is the first step to helping. Homelessness is an issue that it is increasing daily.

Maria Garcia, a 21year old student at FCC and math major, said she has many ideas on how the community can help stabilize the homeless enough without giv-

ing them too much leeway. Garcia said, “I don’t believe in giving them money; I give them food. The community can make a list of contacts and the jobs they w i l l o ff e r.

G iv e th em little things that they can do and give them that sense of having a job.”

However, some stuGavien Thomas, Liltola Thomas, and Deon Bridewell dents don’t at The Fresno Rescue Mission’s family shelter. feel the same.

Twenty eight year old Tenisha turn their lives around. Rico said Pickett, a returning student and he achieved this by taking a step accounting major said, “There is to pull himself out of his situation. nothing the community can do He started by finding himself two to help or stop it. That’s a choice jobs, and using the help offered by they [homeless] have to make on the Fresno Rescue Mission to stay their own.” clean and find a way to save his A belief that the homeless show money to move into an apartment. little or no gratitude and make no “The basis is, you have to make attempt to better themselves is a a difference for yourself, because factor that keeps most from giving. if I make a difference for myself, Floyd Virgle, 46, works in one day, someone will see it and Downtown Fresno and encounters say ‘I could do the same thing,’” the homeless almost daily. “I’ve Rico said. “But, if they keep on seen all angles of homelessness. I seeing that I got my hand out, that give when I can, but it gets over- I’m not doing anything with it and whelming. I always ask, ‘why do I I’m just ‘gimme, gimme, gimme,’ have to help when I’m not the one then it’s not gonna work.” who put them in this situation?’

Rico said, “There is no true but, I know there are those who answer; there is no quick fixes sincerely need and are thankful of because this could take years for the help they receive.” half of these people to move out For Virgle, this nagging question of here. But, there’s got to be an keeps him from helping the home- inquirer; there’s gotta be some less further. The community and form of legalization of how can individuals can push themselves we help them on an individual to help but not enable. level because you can’t help Samuel Rico, 52, is one out of someone on a deep level…it soon few homeless who were able to falls because there is no order.”

Photo By Brendan Raley

By Dylan Domingos & Iesha Mendez Rampage Rerporters

Resources for Help

San Joaquin Valley Veterans, Plaza Terrace Housing Inc. Target Group: Target Group: U.S. veterans

255-8838, 486-VETS (8387) 4928 E. Clinton Way, Suite 107 Fresno, CA 93727 Hours: M-F, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. barry@sjvv.org

Acorn Housing Corporation Target Group: Low and moderate income families and individuals 221-0217, 221-0704 (fax) 3636 N. First Street, Suite 139 Fresno, CA 93726 Hours: M-F, 9 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Imartinez@acornhousing.org www.acornhousing.org

CalWorks clients

453-6794, 453-6793, 444-0244 (fax) 4041 Plaza Drive West Fresno, CA 93702 Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1 p.m.-4 p.m. rprice@hafresno.org www.fresnohumanservices.org

Sanctuary Transitional Living Centers Target Group:

Young adults (18 - 24); Emancipated Minors (16-17) (TLC, TLC2, TLC3) 268-1045, 268-1047 (fax)

1046 T Street Fresno, CA 93721-1427 Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week; Housing Authorities of the M-F, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

City and County of Fresno Other languages: Spanish

City

tlc@fresnoeoc.org Target Group: www.fresnoeoc.org Seniors, low and moderate income, persons with disabilities, Samaritan Women and veterans 445-8960, 445-8980 (fax) 1331 Fulton Mall Fresno, CA 93721 Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. (closed alternate Fridays) dgrove@hafresno.org www.hafresno.orgç

New Outlook Family Transitional Housing Target Group: Families

248-9445, 248-9346 (fax) 5070 N. Sixth Street, Suite 182 Fresno, CA 93710

Poverello House 498-6988, 485-6548 (fax) 412 F Street Fresno, CA 93777 Hours: M-F 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. info@poverellohouse.org www.poverellohouse.org

Community After CARE Resources Target Group: Women from jail or prison 227-2190, 227-2091 (fax) 4840 N. First Street, Suite 110 Fresno, CA 93726 Hours: M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Sanctuary Safe Place Youth Shelter Target Group: At-risk youth

498-8543, 1-800-820-4968, 498-8549 (fax) 2336 Calaveras Street Fresno, CA 93721 Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week (shelter); M-F, 8:30 a.m.5 p.m. (office) sanctuary@fresnoeoc.org www.fresnoeoc.org

Food Not Bombs www.fresnoalliance.com/FNB laurenliberty@attbi.com

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News

March 16, 2011

81 Year Old “Dot” Digs in Trash to Aid Students

By Jessica Harrington Rampage Reporter

Dorothy ‘Dot’ Seedley at the age of 81 collects cans for go green scholarship.

Photos By Abel Cortez

You may mistake her for a dumpster diver, or someone who cannot afford her rent.

You may even think she is out of work or disabled because she limps from two artificial hips.

No matter what you think you know of the feisty little can lady who is a very familiar sight at Fresno City College, it is far from her r eal life story.

The true story of 81 year old Dorothy “Dot” Sedley is about grace, sacrifice, service, and most of all giving back.

Dot was born on the day the stock market crashed, Oct. 29, 1929. Her father passed away in 1936 and left her mother and 7 children behind ranging between the ages of 5-15. The three youngest children were sent to a boarding school for orphans where she attended 6th grade through high school.

Dot attended California State University San Francisco in 1946 for three semesters before she dropped out and eventually got married. Dot finally decided to go back to college and graduated with her Bachelors Degree at 40 years old. Dot received a phone interview for a job at West Virginia University and was hired.

The can collecting started in 1988 when Dorothy (Dot) Sedley was working at West Virginia University; she would take walks during the day in the mostly rural area. She got the idea of picking up cans and bottles from her daughter who would use the

money that they received from recycling as a fundraiser for a club. Dot decided to help out and she eventually started picking up cans and bottles that she would find during her walks to help out her daughter.

“I collected the bottles and cans that I found and then I kept calling

my daughter to come pick them up and she wouldn’t, so eventually I took them down to the recycling and I had $88. I rounded the money off to $100 and instead of giving it to my daughter I gave it to a colleague who had a scholarship fund at West Virginia for adult women going back to school.”

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While in the orphan boarding school, “I always dreamt that someday a little old woman would find me and realize how smart I was and help put me through college, but the little old lady never showed up,” Dot said.

Once Dot retired from West Virginia and moved back to California she continued scavenging in the trash cans and on walks for cans and bottles to recycle.

She didn’t continue to scavenge for a way of income, but instead started donating to local charities until she stumbled upon Fresno City College.

She started scavenging at Fresno City College and once she had enough money saved up from collecting she started donating money back. “I would come on club rush day and I would walk up to the different booths and ask them who they were and what they do and they would tell me and then I would write a check out for $50 to the club and be on my way,” Dot said.

“After awhile someone approached me and recommended that I start a scholarship fund rather than handing out $50 to each club,” she said, “But I knew that scholarship funds are expensive to start because of my colleague from West Virginia, so I thought about it for awhile.”

“While I was thinking about whether or not to start the scholarship fund I realized that I had a few CDs that were about to mature and I decided that I would do it so I gave the first payment of $5,000 and then a second payment of $5,000 and another $700 so that the endowment didn’t have to gain interest before we could give away a scholarship.”

Dot started the Go Green Scholarship Fund and gave out her first

scholarship of $500 last year.

This year they were able to give away two scholarships worth $500 each.

“I started the scholarship fund, but I have a lot of helpers.” Dot said. “I like to call them my elves.”

Helpers include everyone from the Associated Student Government to Science teachers on campus. Dot has also received a Volunteer Pass that allows her to go into the buildings and go to her elves and pick up the cans and bottles that they have collected.

“Most everyone has been very cordial, kind, and helpful from the administration,” Dot said.

“What I want students to know, though, is that there are 100s of scholarships that are available to them and many of the scholarships go unclaimed. All the students have to do is ask for a list of them or go onto the website.”

She said, “I have had students approach me in the past and ask me a couple main questions, first, ‘Do you mind if I ask how old you are?,’ second ‘Why do you collect cans?’ and third, ‘Why are you always running?’ I always tell them how old I am—81—and then I go on to explain that I collect cans because I don’t have to.

If I had to collect cans I wouldn’t do it. Not to mention that if I don’t tire myself out either physically or mentally then I cannot sleep at night—literally I cannot fall asleep. For the third question sometimes I “get smart” and I tell them ‘I am old and I don’t have much time left,’ but most of the time I ask why they’re not running. Just like it is normal for you to walk, it is normal for me to run.”

Dot brought special bins onto campus that are for recycling only. The big blue cans with white dome tops as well as the metal square recycling bins she personally comes through and picks up the bottles and cans that are in it. “The worst part of picking up bottles and cans is when the people stuff their chip bags, muffin wrappers, and candy wrappers inside of their bottles, because then I have to try to pick them out.” Dot said. “Sometimes I have to cut the bottle open to get the trash out. The absolute worst thing I have to pull out of bottle is Kleenex. I hate pulling that out because I don’t want to touch it, but I won’t let the bottle go to waste.”

Dot said, “If you want to help please wait until you see my special bins. They are by the library, the vending machines, and the science building. Also, please don’t put your trash inside the bottles or cans. If you collect your bottles or cans and have a bag that you want to give to me you’re more than welcome to approach me and let me know. I like to call those situations “special deliveries.”

While Dot continues to be the ‘little old lady that is coming to help put a student through college’, she said her next mission is “to gain exclusive rights to play in the trash.”

B

News

March 16, 2011

5

Foreign Students Worry About Crises at Home

By Tomas Kassahun

The flags of every country hang from the ceiling of the cafeteria at Fresno City College. These flags represent the many students at FCC who have left their native lands to seek higher education.

At the same time, these students have left behind the people they have known for most of their lives.

While these students struggle to keep up with their studies, they must deal with bombardments of news. This news includes turmoil and catastrophe in their homelands that have become so commonplace – the devastation from the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, the bloody civil war raging in Libya, recent political upheavals in Egypt and Tunisia, and the slaughters in Mexico. They live with constant worry over the state of their home country and their loved ones.

“Too much anxiety has the ability to compromise any student’s performance as well as diminish one’s overall quality of life,” said Sharon Muha Psy.D., of FCC’s Psychological Services.

“If a person is experiencing significant anxiety that is compromising their academic success, ability to work, or personal life it is a sign that professional assistance could be beneficial.”

Auguste Yao Kouadio, a native of a small West African nation known as the Ivory Coast, lives with anxiety. “It’s painful to focus on studying, when I’m thinking about the safety of my family,” Kouadio said. In the last decade, he has seen his country crumble due to a civil war.

Another FCC student, Mebrahtu Gebremedhin, knows all too well the feeling of coping with bad news from home. Gebremedhin grew up in Ethiopia, another African country which has seen its share of turmoil over the years. He says he lives in fear of what could happen to his loved ones at home.

Sociology major Diana Corral has lived in the U.S. for much of her life, but she is still very much connected to her home in Mexico.

“I’m very concerned with the safety of my loved ones because they live in Sinaloa, one of the most dangerous states in Mexico,” said Corral. “Many drug cartels are there and are used to recruit young people to kill for them and sell drugs. They kidnap people and hold them for ransom.”

For film major, Omar Ali, it’s a challenge to wake up everyday and thrive in a foreign country without any of his family members. Only two years ago, Ali left his beloved country of Yemen and came to the U.S. Ali’s family is spread out through Saudi Arabia and Yemen and the recent turmoil in the Middle East is terrifying.

SERVICES FOR CONCERNED FOREIGN STUDENTS

These students live with a high level of fear and anxiety that they will never see their loved ones again. For reassurance, some turn to FCC’s Psychological Services which provides help for students who may be dealing with a crisis

Auguste Yao Kouadio, native of Ivory Coast

abroad or who may be concerned about their loved ones.

“If a student has concerns that are beyond the scope of the department, such as concerns regarding support for family oversees, our staff makes every effort to provide the student with referrals for agencies that may be of assistance,” said Sharon Muha Psy.D. “We provide emotional support and assist students with improving their well being.”

COPING

Sharon Muha, Psy.D. also said that the effect of foreign turmoil on international students will vary from individual to individual.

“Some students may experience significant mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression.

Whereas, others may be able to cope effectively,” said Dr. Muha.

Meanwhile, the students devise their own ways of coping with the uncertainties. Kouadio said he is often on the Internet checking the news on his country.

Like Kouadio, Gebremedhin constantly checks the news from his country. “I always want to know what is going on. That’s my home. It’s a part of me. My soul is buried there,” said Gebremedhin Through modern technology, Gebremedhin can often check on the well being of his loved ones.

Still Gebremedhin says his family in Ethiopia is more concerned about him. “They watch the news, and they see what is going on in the U.S.[the economic downturn] and they worry about me,” he said.

Photos By Abel Cortez

Rampage Reporter

Diana Corralm, native of Mexico

Mebrahtu Gebremedhim, native of Ethiopia

I cried all night when I heard the news,” said Gebremedhin.

Corral is worried about the drugs cartels and the havoc they’re creating in Mexico. She is also concerned about the many children in Mexico who leave school early to work, but barely make enough to survive. “There’s inflation, and the cost of living doesn’t match the pay of the poorest people. The police officers are corrupt and so is the government,” said Corral.

“I worry that nothing will ever change in Mexico. The poor will stay poor and the rich will stay rich.”

Ali said that despite the recent protests in the Middle East, he feels fortunate that the protests in Yemen haven’t been as violent as in other Middle Eastern Countries.

Still the challenge of being away from home is difficult to ignore.

With only a student visa, Ali can’t work, and with the high cost of

tuition for international students, he must treasure every penny. Ali relies on his relatives abroad to provide for his living. He said, “I try to spend as little as possible. I don’t want to bother them.”

HOPES FOR THE FUTURE

Even though they live with immense fear, the students are hopeful for a better future.

Kouadio said he hopes to bring his son to the U.S. and works hard to provide him a bright future. But the paper work is overwhelming and the immigration fees daunting.

As the only male adult in his family, Kouadio believes it is his moral obligation to take care of everybody. “I have to provide them with what they need. I want them to have a system of life and to be independent,” said Kouadio.

Even with so much to be concerned about, Kouadio says fear will not run his life. “My grandpa

says sometimes to be better, we have to be worse,” said Kouadio.

“One day we will get better. One day I will be part of the solution.”

Kouadio dreams of a day when the people of his country can go back to their normal lives. “I hope someday people won’t wake up hearing guns shots and fearing for their lives every day,” he said For Gabremedhin, a good future would involve opening a business in his country when he finishes his education.

“I have to give back to my country. It’s the right thing to do,” he said. “I wish there was more opportunity for young people. They go to other countries because they can’t find jobs.”

Corral said the continued turmoil in Mexico has made it hard for her to be optimistic. “As long as there’s a demand for the drugs, I feel there will always be this ongoing turmoil in Mexico,” Corral said. “I can’t do anything to change it. Everyone who has tried gets murdered.”

Ali is very hopeful about the future of his country. He relishes the opportunity to speak about the courage the youth in Yemen have displayed during the protests. “What’s happening is making me a proud Arab. It’s a breath of fresh air,” said Ali. “They are fighting for freedom and liberty. This will change the picture for the next hundred years.”

After his education, Ali hopes to return to Yemen. “I want to live there. I want to be part of the change,” said Ali. “There’s a lot we can do. It lies in the hands of the youth. I want to be part of that.”

T H E T U R M O I L AT HOME Kouadio said his home country, Ivory Coast, has been shaky for the last 11 years. “We’ve been struggling to find peace. It started with a rebellion and has turned to civil war. There are leadership issues and conflicts between Muslims and Christians,” he said.

During this time of instability in the Ivory Coast, Kouadio has seen his six nieces killed or raped.

Moreover, he must contend with uncertainties surrounding his 19 year old son who is in the midst of the turmoil.

Gebremedhin recalls receiving devastating news from his country, Ethiopia, where Muslim extremists were killing monks in a monastery. The tragedy took a toll on Gebremedhin who had been to the monastery many times and was familiar with the monks. “I know how they live. They pray for everybody, not just for Ethiopia.

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6

March 16, 2011

Entertainment

FCC and CSU Fresno Bands Will Share Stage In College Theatre by

Dana said he cannot recall any- the clinic on Thursday afternoon.

Sammy “Pro“ LoProto final songs of the night. “Aspen out the door.”

Jubilee,” a composition by Ron FCC to Host City Jazz thing this cool being offered when Sheppard has played on countRampage Reporter Nelson will feature an exciting he was in high school, however less recording sessions with major Festival on Mar 24

Jazz Festival to combine FCC & CSUF Bands

Last semester, someone had complained to Dale Engstrom that the Fresno City College Concert Band had softened their normal boisterous tones a little. Well, the problem has been solved! According to Engstrom, who is the Concert Band Director, “We just added another 50 musicians or so,” Engstrom says. “That ought to raise the roof! We just hope we can fit everyone on stage.”

Tonight at 7:30 p.m. in the FCC Theatre, the Concert Band will share the stage with their counterpart from Fresno State, the CSU Fresno Wind Ensemble. The event will almost be a drill in stage management, and may resemble a scene from the Keystone Kops.

The opening set will be solely the FCC Concert band playing their rendition of “Prelude: Opus 34”

by Dimitri Shostakovich.

After a short break, the CSU Ensemble will commence its own performance. FCC has had a good working relationship with the music departments at Fresno state for many years. Many of FCC’s music instructors studied at the FSU level at one time or another which allows a unique concert venue here.

The CSU Ensemble, which is conducted by the renowned Dr. Gary Gilroy, will offer a unique rendition of “Symphonic Songs for Band” by Robert Russell Bennett.

After another short break, both groups will be on stage together.

“We actually planned the event for this theatre, as there is simply not enough room in the OAB auditorium,” Engstrom says. “The stage in the theatre is much wider.”

The two conductors will take turns playing and conducting the combined forces for their

and rare vocal performance by FCC’s Isabel Contreras. Dr. Gilroy will conduct the Henry Fillmore classic, “His Honor.” The joint group will sing in a surprise finale.

Engstrom said, “I may have time to introduce the final number of the night, “The Firebird Suite,” to buy some time, as the stage will

The FCC Music Department hosts the 21st annual City Jazz Festival here on campus. According to FCC jazz studies professor, Mike Dana, one of the main goals of the festival is to invite and host local high school jazz bands from around the valley. Some of these

“We just added another 50 musicians or so, that ought to raise the roof! We just hope we can fit everyone on stage.”

- Dale Engstrom

swell to well over 100 musicians.

In 1913, concert goers listening to the outrageous “Firebird Suite” by the renowned Igor Stravinsky, were rumored to have rioted in the streets in response to the savage and new style of the music performance. Having this many musicians on stage should result in a spectacular finale, and Engstrom doesn’t expect any riots this time around, almost 100 years later.

Tickets are $8 general, and $6 for seniors and students.

The two groups will have another opportunity to shake the walls down on April 2, when they both appear at the FSU Collegiate Wind Festival . This event has been renamed the Dr. Lawrence Sutherland Collegiate Wind festival, in honor of the renowned FSU educator, and mentor of Engstrom.

Dale Engstrom said he is quite proud of all of tonight’s performers, and reminds the student body that as an educator, his job has incredible joys and curses. “You never know who’s coming into your class, as your favorites go

high school bands have come from as far away as the state of Washington, and as near as the Bullard High School. The panel of judges offers their critique and suggestions for improving the students’ performances and goals.

These consist of professional musicians and educators from around the state. They also declare some winners and stand-outs, and award scholarships and trophies, based on rankings.

Another unique feature of these festivities is to offer the guest performer a chance to work oneon-one with the high school musicians, during the afternoon’s clinic portion of the festival. For some students, this is a wonderful way to meet their idols. “Generally it is too far to go to the East Coast, and their heroes are only seen on TV or heard on radio. The students can get to meet the artist, and get hands on critique, right here in Fresno,” says Dana. “The performer can offer some words of inspiration, and create an avenue for the student to pursue their dreams.”

Ruben’s Rib Shack Review

by Jessica

Harrington Rampage Reporter

Photo by Abel Cortez

array of saxophones, flutes, and clarinets, and he lets them do the talking. However, one of the great things about Sheppard, says Dana, is that he is a great teacher as well, and will reach out to the students at

players for years. In the last few years, he has toured with the likes of Steely Dan, Boz Scaggs, and James Taylor. While collaborating with other geniuses like Natalie Cole and Queen Latifah, Sheppard has seen his partnerships generate accolades, including Joni Mitchell and her 2007 Grammy award.

Later that evening, Sheppard will play in the FCC theatre with the Sanctuary Band, headlined by Dana and his hand-picked cronies.

Dana regularly hosts a jazz jam at Tokyo Gardens on Sunday nights and performs at many different venues as an opening act, or an accompaniment performance.

Last year’s guest performer, Tim Ries who is the sax man for the Rolling Stones, said he has noticed that Fresno has seen a popular resurgence in Jazz. The new venue in downtown, Fulton 55, will host Ries, and his Rolling Stones Project on April 1, and will be backed by Dana’s other musical avenue, the Jazz Composer’s Orchestra.” This consists of some more of the mature players from around town,” Dana says. Dana and the other FCC music educators are known for their resilience and their tireless energy which is infectious among the students.

The Tower Theatre presents jazz great Kurt Elling, on April 6 with Mike Dana, and the Sanctuary Band as the opening act. “Like I said earlier, in the Jazz world, it’s kind of like a friend of a friend or family member got me the gig,” Dana says. “If I can encourage at least one student per semester to realize that they themselves are the #1 cog in their business plan, then I have made a dent here.”

He reminded students that it isn’t enough to be a great or talented guitarist,Sammy story “They need to create their own opportunities.”

hopeful, however, convincing myself that I didn’t need a huge soda anyways. I opened up my sandwich and it was surprisingly large. It was about 8inches long and had a perfect amount of pulled pork on it.

Not too much, not too little.

My first bite was amazing, but after I worked my way through the sandwich a little more I started to realize that the meat was a little dry, probably over cooked. I ended up not finishing the sandwich and moved on to my chili beans.

Holy chili beans. They were the perfect amount of spice, not too hot, but enough to make

your nose start running. I was so impressed that I wished I would have ordered an entire bowl of chili. I didn’t, however, see any cornbread on the menu which I think would have complimented the chili perfectly.

Overall, I would not recommend ordering the pulled pork sandwich because I have definitely had better sandwiches at other places—like Famous Daves for instance. I probably won’t return to Ruben’s Rib Shack unless I am craving chili because it was too expensive for my budget and I cannot afford to spend another $9 and not thoroughly enjoy my food.

“If I can encourage at least one student per semester to realize that they themselves are the #1 cog in their business plan, then I have made a dent here.”

-Mike Dana

Barbeque at Ruben’s Rib Shack located on First and Cedar.

both offered in sandwich form or as a meal. I chose to get the pulled pork sandwich which was $6.99 by itself and then I made it a combo with one side and a drink for $1.50 more. I was able to choose my one side as chili beans and a Coca-Cola for my drink. I took my order to-go because I was by myself and felt a little uncomfortable taking up a table that could seat four people for just me. My total came out to $9.25 which

is a little pricy for me since I am always on a budget, but I was willing to give it a chance.

I waited four minutes for my meal to be ready to go. The lady brought my food out bagged up for me and told me where the plastic silverware and napkins were that I could take. I grabbed a couple napkins and a straw and headed out. The first thing I noticed was that the drink was about 12oz, an extremely tiny drink in my mind. I was still Sara Jonsen preps the ribs

Photo by Abel Cortez

Ruben’s Rib Shack is the kind of restaurant I like, a small hole-in-the-wall kind of restaurant with people who are seasoned regulars. Old men sitting around talking and everyday people who are going to take your order, people who look like they are trying to make an honest living and make their restaurant continue to succeed. “The shack”, located on Clinton and Fresno St. had a sign posted on the door that said “Better than Famous Dave’s” and people’s signatures which I assume were the signatures of people who believed the statement to be true—I was automatically intrigued.

Ruben’s had their menu written on a large chalk board and the daily sides and soda flavors were written on a white board.

The entire restaurant seats about 12 people.

I love BBQ pork and BBQ chicken so my first assignment was figuring out what I was going to eat because they had

his college days at Fresno State offered many opportunities.” I can still remember playing alongside the great Cannonball Adderley, Clarke Terry, and my idol, Joe Pas.” Sometimes, these students can carry these memories with them for the rest of their lives.

Dana recalls, “All I could tell myself, as I played alongside Mr. Pas, was ‘Don’t screw this up, Mike!’”

This year the guest performer is the world renowned sax player, Bob Sheppard. Sheppard, who is generally regarded as a ‘first call’ musician, is considered a multi woodwind specialist. Ironically he performed at FCC some 15 years ago, and Dana felt it was time for another West Coast appearance.

He is usually surrounded by an

Entertainment

March March 16, 16,2011 2011

10 7

Phillip’s Korner:

Photo by Brendan Raley

10 Ways to know w

Phillip Romar Rampage Reporter by

you’re failing out of school.

3.

If you are late to class back-to-back, and your teacher says nothing to you – he/ she has already given up on you.

So hopefully, you’re in school, attending your classes, completing all the assigned work and hoping to pass. But I talked to a few friends who gave me the impresIf you’re sion that some students caught may not even know when off guard they are doing terribly by your teacher’s in their classes. Are you question and the one of those? only answer you can think of is Lil Wayne If your or Rihanna – you’re teacher spending too much glares time daydreaming at you as if he/she about them. You’re cannot recognize your face, even though this failing. is the 10th week of If you’re class -- you’ve stayed more away from class too focused often and are failing. on texting in class, it’s time to send this text to your friends: “IM If you GOIN 2 FAYELL MEH turn in CLASSES!! =D” your test only 20 minutes If you’re into a two-hour exam ditching -- you have not been class just studying enough. You to hang out, you’re are going to fail. seriously going to fail.

1.

2.

4.

5.

6.

7.

If you’re completely lost during class discussions and your classmates seem to be speaking Greek, you have probably not been paying attention, and yes, you are going to fail.

8.

If you fall asleep during class, you’ll wake up to an “F” on your forehead, and you’ll fail.

9.

If nobody in your class wants to be in a study group with you or wants to be paired with you for a group project -- they know you’re failing and want nothing to do with you.

10.

If you just got all Ds and Fs in your midterm grades, you’re obviously failing.

hang out spots in Fresno Sendy Garcia Rampage Reporter by

Winter is now officially over and spring has arrived. Say goodbye to those layers and layers of clothing because now the season has changed, and so has the weather.

The sun is done hiding behind grey clouds with weather like this, which has begun to heat up. No more having to stay in on a Friday night due to the rainy weather in Fresno.

When the weekend comes around and you need a break from all that studying along with homework, you’re going to want something fun to vent on. It’s time to get up, get ready, call up som friends, and paint the town red.

Now that you and your friends are ready for a night out in the town, you’re probably wondering what is there to do. Don’t worry, there is tons to do, you just have to explore this town a bit.

There are many pool halls around town but one in particular that seems great on locality, being found on Blackstone and Gettysburg. Rack Family Billiards, also known as “The Rack”, is not a pool hall that is too big nor is it too small; at times it can

get packed so parking is limited, depending on the time framing.

They are open every day from 11 in the morning until 2 a.m. It costs 5 dollars for a game of pool during the day and after 7p.m the price goes up to 6 dollars. Ladies play free every Monday so for all the men, it would be a great place to take your date. Urbano Magana, 2 year student at Fresno City, states “I like going there to grab a drink with my friends and play a game of pool, all while listening to some great music. It’s the spot to be.”

A fun hang out spot during the night life is the well-known River Park. It has a little bit of everything; stores to shop at, places to eat, and not to mention the movie theatre. It has an open outside atmosphere and different crowds of people every day. With places like Teazers World Tea market, Yogurtland, Me-N-Eds Coney Island Grill and plenty of amazing hang out spots, you won’t find yourself yawning from boredom. “It’s a great place to socialize, meet up with people and just relaxes with friends from the built up stress we collect during the week”, says Andrea Lawrence, Engineering major and second semester student

at FCC. In the mood to dance and have fun, there are some great night clubs here in Fresno. Ghaleb’s Grill and Hookah Lounge has bit of a lot. It’s a night club with a live DJ, go-go dancers, and a dance floor that has enough space for you to bust out with the robot. It also has hookah, a bar for those 21 and over, and it serves food. It’s located on Blackstone and Bullard.

Club Starline, located in the Tower District, is another amazing place to hang out with your friends. It has a variety of events to satisfy everyone’s taste. It has Salsa night, performances from local bands, and it has a club night with a DJ. So no more staying to staying at home because all it takes is a bit of city researching and in the end you’ll realize that there is always something to do. From partying in the night life or hanging out with your friends at your local pool hall, Fresno has it all. Have some fun when school stress starts to build. Put the books aside and hit the town.

For more ideas for outings, check out www.valley411.com. It has everything you’re looking for.

8

March 16, 2011

Entertainment

Dusty Buns: Bistro On Wheels

Customers wait in line to order food at the Kaiser Permanente Farmers Market in North Fresno.

Bun Sandwich which is composed menu vary slightly, with entrĂŠe

by Nathan A. Alonzo of chipotle roast chicken, winter menu items going from $5-7.

Rampage Reporter carrots, and sesame/lime slaw. Some of the tastiest items on the Dusty Buns Bistro Bus is a Some of their other menu items menu at Dusty Buns are their delectable treat from the moment are a grilled cheese, the menu also seasonal desserts that are made you start enjoying one of their has weekly specials that vary with with local products from organic delicious menu items. Available what vegetables are in season. farms. on their menu is the classic Duty The prices of the items on the With the bus’ mission to provide

Photo by Paul Schlesinger

quality local food to the residents of the central valley the owners Dusty and Kristen (have paul insert their last name) are graduates of le cordon bleu and are out to bring a different style of food to the area.

The idea of gourmet food trucks is something that the originators

of Dusty Buns have brought to the valley from the Bay Area and Southern California.

Overall this trendy food truck is great for a bite to eat when someone wants to eat a quality dish as well as support local aspiring chefs.

Entertainment

Reviews:

idea that it is all about good looks.

So, when his son has the curse he abandon’s him at a new house with their housekeeper (Lisa Gay Hamilton) and a blind tutor (Neil Patrick Harris). Feeling upset and alone he begins to look out for Lindy (Vanessa Hudgens), a girl from school he begins to like.

The film is rated PG 13. The moment the movie began I automatically couldn’t take my eyes off of it. It caught my attention fast. For once it wasn’t because the film starts with a shirtless guy working out. It just gets you wondering who this guy is and why does he look so happy. Then

we realize he’s this cocky popular guy. You immediately meet all the characters and see the roles they play as the movie progresses.

There were a lot of great visual effects. Throughout the movie you watch Kyle’s arm tattoo of the tree change throughout the seasons in the year he is cursed. You can’t even tell that the year went by in the story. They manage the time well. The story didn’t last too long or seemed too short. This retold modern version of “Beauty and the Beast” is done well. The movie is unpredictable. What I like the most is that you see Kyle change in the movie. He’s not just getting Lindy to like him to break the curse for his own good.

You see him fall for her as he acts

The director of this movie is Catherine Hardwicke, who also directed the first Twilight film.

Red Riding Hood is set in a small village. Valerie (Amanda Seyfried) is in an arranged marriage to a blacksmith named Henry (Max Irons), even though she loves a woodcutter named

Peter (Shiloh Fernandez). In the meantime, the village is being haunted every full moon by a cruel werewolf, who we later learn wants to take Valerie away from the village.

Hungry for revenge, the people call on well-known werewolf hunter, Father Solomon (Gary Oldman), to help them kill the wolf. But Solomon’s appearance brings unintended consequences

as he warns that the wolf, who takes human form by day, could be any one of them. As the death toll rises with each moon, Valerie begins to suspect that the werewolf could be someone she loves.

As panic rules the town, Valerie discovers that she has a unique connection to the beast, one that inevitably draws them together, making her both suspect and bait.

No one knows who the werewolf

a high budget film, people usually expect to be amazed by what they have just seen. The first thing I thought when leaving the theater that day was, “Wow, I wonder if that’s what it’s really like to be a Marine if so, I want to join the military.”

In the beginning of the movie, viewers begin to think there is going to be a meteor shower however; scenes quickly change into an alien invasion.

Staff sergeant Nantz was ordered to aid in his last mission

by helping instruct a new staff sergeant along the way. This mission was a result of an alien invasion that attacked one of the most popular cities in the world, Los Angeles.

The camera movement in this movie is horrible, similar to the movie “Cloverfield” for those of you who have seen it. The action in Battle Los Angeles is ridiculously awesome, although the shaky camera effect starts to loose it’s purpose rather quickly and makes the movie rather hard

to follow. A good way to describe the movie would be the 1996 film “Independence Day”, mixed with the popular video game “Call of Duty”.

If you’re the type of person that likes the ever-popular alien invasion movies, you should defiantly check this one out.

Grade: B-

Nathan A. Alonzo Rampage Reporter

Relativity Media

“Beastly”

Dominique Hernandez Rampage Reporter

CBS Films presents this retelling tale on March 4. Kyle (Alex Pettyfer) is the guy that has everything in high school. He’s all about good looks. He likes to torment the school witch, Kendra (Mary-Kate Olsen). She puts a spell on him that makes him look ugly after he rejects her at a party. To break the spell he has to make someone tell him they love him. The film reveals that though he had all the attention at school, it wasn’t the same at home. His father is an anchor man who supports the

is but when it’s discovered it changes Valerie’s life.

This film is recommended to pre-teen girls who love romantic plots. It could have been a bit better directed. It had a touch of Twilight in it, which was way too similar. Overall if you are bored and there is nothing better to do, this film would be perfect before your afternoon nap.

“The Red Riding Hood”

Sendy Garcia Rampage Reporter by

Warner Bros. Pictures

who becomes curious about how Mora has become an instant success. What Mora discovers quickly is that he needs NTZ in order to keep up with his newly acquired status. Another thing he also discovers is that without the drug he will go into withdraws that could result in his death.

Through the film Mora goes through a number of obstacles to battle to stay supplied with NTZ, as well as make sure that people don’t find out his secret to greatness.

Grade: A

CBS Films

Limitless a Relativity Media film directed by Neil Burger is a difficult film to specifically classify, it has the components of a sci-fi, suspense, and fantasy kind of film.

The movie stars a cast of very talented and experienced actors.

Starring in the movie is Bradley Cooper as the main character Eddie Mora who is an aspiring writer

who is suffering from chronic writers block in the sprawling metropolis of New York City. Just when he thinks that his life can’t get any worse he gets dumped by his girlfriend who is played by new actress Abbie Cornish.

In the middle of this low-point Mora runs into an old friend who gets him on a new pharmaceutical that is supposedly FDA approved and will be released to the public in a year, the pill is intended to

unlock the brains full power. After taking the pill named NZT Mora is able to finish the novel that he was working on in a matter of days.

What Mora finds is that with NZT he is able to help him unlock a lot of the information that he learned or was exposed to in the past and he is now able to use it whenever he needs it. With this gift Mora is able to jump into wall street and quadruple his net profit in four days.

As he skyrockets to success he comes across Wall Street Tycoon Carl Van Loon (Robert De Niro) corny around her and gets frustrated when he doesn’t know how to impress her. Plus, Harris does a great job at being a blind guy.

He certainly gets some laughs out of you. Harris has done voices in kid movies “Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore” and “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs.” He also appeared in both White Castle movies and in the movie “The Smurfs” which is expected to release in August. It’s been a while since we’ve seen the Olsen twins in a film. I questioned Olsen’s role as the witch, but as the movie went on she seemed to play the role better. I didn’t have high expectation out of this movie, and in the end I really enjoyed it. This movie does do one thing for sure and that is catch your eyes.

by

9

Your latest movies and albums

“Limitless”

by

March 16, 2011

“Battle: Los Angeles” Max Rosendahl Rampage Reporter

by

Lupe Fiasco’s

Studio album

“Lasers”

fans, Atlantic finally gave in and announced the release date of

by Lyssette Trujillo March 8. Almost two years later and we can finally get our hands Rampage Reporter on Lasers.

The album starts off strong After a struggle with Atlantic Records Lasers is fi- with a catchy but generic song, nally released. It is the third “Letting Go”. This song paves studio album by rapper Lupe the way for the rest of the album.

Fiasco. It was originally Lupe’s sound is similar to fellow announced in June of 2009 label mate B.o.B. Some artists but Atlantic put a hold on it featured on the album include John because of the lack of hits Legend, Trey Songs, Skylar Grey that they felt would come and Sarah Green.

In past albums, Lupe has had from it. After a protest from

an originality about his songs, but this time around there is definitely something missing. It seems as if Atlantic had a very strong control.

Making it seem a bit generic and repetitive. Lupe has admitted in recent interviews that he was pretty much forced to record his most recent single, “The Show Must Go On”, and “Never Forget You”.

In a lot of the songs the beats seem to over take the rapping.

They also seemed to be heavy with electronics and they just bled onto each other and it just made for a big mess. There was a lot of auto tune and the songs seemed to be watered down. It seems as if the record label made this album radio

Columbia Pictures

Battle: Los Angeles directed

by Jonathan Liebesman, is sci-fi action thriller that leaves you curious as to what it would be like as a marine. The story revolves around the retiring staff sergeant Michael Nantz, the most respected and well-known pupils in the marine core, who is serving his last day in the military.

The movie, released March 11, 2011 and cost its producers an estimated $100,000,000. On

friendly and conformed to rap and hip hop today.

There are some good things that come out of this album. Lupe is not afraid to say what he thinks and it is obvious in, “Words I never Said”. The song that takes a stab at the war and President Obama.

There is also, “All Black Everything”, with strong lyrics that showcase his lyrical writing talent.

I cannot blame Lupe for the sound of this new album because his lyrics were solid and like his last album “The Cool”, evoked some emotion. He is socially conscious and has a message in his songs. This album, however could have been a lot better than it was.

Views

March 16, 2011

Is America Promoting Democracy in the Middle East?

Ramiro Gudino photo by

W

hen discussing the issue of whether or not America is promoting democracy in other countries, we have to look at more than just the political affairs.

The issue is not all about money or oil. What’s more important is the fact that America is the perfect example to other countries who want the same freedom Americans enjoy.

While the brave people of the Middle East deserve all the credit they can get for fighting for their rights, America deserves credit for paving the way for democracy.

America is one of the few countries where different political parties can exchange the cruelest words, and yet be willing to listen to each other.

During the past State of the Union Address, we witnessed democracy in its purest form when Republicans and Democrats assembled peacefully to listen to the President address the nation. This was an inspiring moment not only for many Americans, but also for people all around the World; especially for those living under a corrupt government.

Pro

It’s moments like these that inspire people to stand up and fight for a system where their voice can be heard.

If there is still anyone in the Middle East who doubts what is possible, all they have to do is look to America.

After all, it was not long ago when Americans who were denied their freedom had to risk their lives to gain their freedom. And in a time where America is led by a Black president, how can the people of the Middle East not believe they will one day be led by a fair government?

Let’s not forget there was a time in America where not everybody could vote. But America has come a long ways since those days. Now the Middle East can look at the progress of America and use it as the foundation to promote their own democracy.

With one of the most influential cultures in the World, America promotes democracy simply by the way it conducts its own government.

Today America is involved in the Middle East and the perception is that America d o e s n ’t c a r e about promoting democracy.

But this is far from the truth.

While there may be numerous benefits for the U.S, the ultimate benefit is peace. Peace in the Middle East ultimately translates to peace in America.

There are those that blame the U.S., for the lives lost in the name of democracy.

But as we have seen throughout history, someone has to be willing to stand for freedom even if comes at a cost. How can we blame America for abiding by this principle.

In the end, it’s not for America to worry about perception. If the U.S decides to stay out of the Middle East, critics will wonder how a country so powerful can sit back and watch as the World crumbles in chaos.

“America is the perfect example to other countries who want the same freedom Americans enjoy.”

Con

Impoverished farmers in Tunisia, the

unemployed youth of Egypt, and the common men of Libya have all done what trillions of American dollars and our smartest bombs could not; bring about change and a chance for democracy in the Middle East. In fact, these seemingly once unorganized rebellions now promise to be a stronger hope for democracy than our war torn “democracies,” Iraq and Afghanistan. This raises the inevitable question: is America helping democracy in the Middle East, or hurting it?

The simple answer is that we all but destroyed any chance for democracy in the Middle East. We are the country that gave billions of dollars to the dictator of Egypt, sold Libyan totalitarians their war machines, and empowered the opium drug lords of Afghanistan by giving them a seat in government. In fact, the most memorable impression in the minds of the Middle East freedom fighters of the U.S. is the insignia on the tear gas canisters used to disperse their Democratic protests that reads, “Made in America.” Still, these democratic movements have thrived, not because of the United States, but in spite of it. Now they alone are their freedom’s greatest hope.

This spread of Democracy, and thereby empowerment of the people, is what America has spilt incalculable civilian and military blood for, and now it seems as if it were all for none. Thinking that we could bring peace at the point of a rifle was dumbfounding to begin with, but our presence in the Middle East defies a more sacred principle, which we once held true at our very foundation. That principle is that any democratic movement must be a movement of the people, by the people, for the people, and not of a foreign power with economic interests.

When our politicians look to the Middle East, they see rising gas prices in the face of civil unrest, not citizens standing up for their own right to democracy. To protect their oil assets they pursue military action, and therefore subjugate the Middle East

by Jesse Franz Rampage Reporter

Paul Schlesinger

Tomas Kassahun Rampage Reporter

by

photo by

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to a perpetual state of war. Only when explaining why our soldiers lie dead on foreign soil will they say that their war is for “Democracy.”

H o w e v e r, Democracy can never be given to these people by America or anyone else.

Democracy can only be given to the people by their own hand. This held true in Egypt, and now future generations will look back in admiration to the noble protesters who overcame all odds and obstacles to fight for freedom in the face of tyranny. Now ask yourself who will Iraqis look back to as the founders of their democracy? The airplanes dropping 10,000 pound bombs on civilian cities?

The American tanks that destroyed their neighborhoods? If people do not take it upon themselves to implement democracy, their forced freedoms not only stand without backing, but without face.

We cannot conquer intolerance through intolerance, we cannot promote sovereignty through empiricism, and we cannot inspire democracy through war. It is up to each nation, of each people to decide its own road to Democracy, just as we did in 1776. Denying any people this unalienable right constitutes a greater threat to their liberties than any tyrannical regime ever could.

“Democracy can never be given to these people by America or anyone else.”

Fresno City College students get away this weekend on amtrak CaliFornia.

SM

Visit AmtrakCalifornia.com/studentdiscount/ for more information, fares and schedules.

AmtrakCalifornia.com • 1-800-USA-RAIL Fares, routes and schedules subject to change without notice. Amtrak and San Joaquin are registered service marks of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.

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11

March 16, 2011

I Want to Ride my Bicycle

by Frank Lopez Rampage Reporter

W

ith gas prices surpassing the $4 mark, long traffic, and crowded parking lots the commute to Fresno City College may seem like a mission within itself.

Instead of having to depend on automobiles or public transit, many students at FCC are opting to ride their bicycles to school.

Nick Flechsing, a student at FCC, said he has been riding bicycles since he could walk.

Flechsing said he chooses to ride a bike instead of driving a car. “It’s a healthier alternative and you help save the environment. There are so many benefits. Gas is expensive, insurance is expensive, and the cost to keep a bike maintained isn’t a lot.”

Annually, the average driver

spends nearly $3,000 on gas, $1,000 on automotive insurance, and $700 on car maintenance and repair.

With many possible complications that may require monetary action from car owners, a bike could be more of an economic mode of transit.

As well as all the benefits it may have on one’s wallet, choosing to ride a bicycle as an alternative choice for transportation also provides exercise for the body.

Studies show that the exercise from cycling gives one a feeling of increased health and well-being, and is beneficial for the cardiovascular system.

FCC student Felipe Bautista said he has been riding his bike to school every day since the beginning of the spring semester. “I get a good exercise coming back and

forth because I come back 3 times a day,” said Bautista. He added that he does not have trouble finding parking in the morning.

The benefits that may be reaped by cycling are not only for the individual, but for the environment in our community as well. The carbon dioxide emitted from motor vehicles has irreparably damaged the atmosphere, water and soil, and the wildlife that inhabit these environments.

The years of subsidizing interstate highways and suburb neighborhoods have wiped away countless acres of wildlife. Another fact to note is that there are slightly more cars in the U.S. then there are people.

David Andrew Escobedo, a student at FCC, always rides his bike to school. Escobedo says he gets to enjoy the landscape and scenery

Alexis Abrahamson Rampage Reporter

Illustration by Austin Verburg

When it comes to a community college, the idea is to spend one, or maybe two, years there and then transfer to a four year university. It seems that this is not the case anymore for most of us.

There are many reasons why it takes so long to get out of Fresno City College; some are the students’ fault.

We all know that the economy

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means of transportation. “We all live here, we all breathe air, we all eat food, and we all drink water,” said Escobedo, “those things are being destroyed by our technology.”

If masses of people started filling the roadways with bicycles instead of cars and trucks, there would be a large impact on health, environmental, and economic aspects of our society.

is not doing well, but that excuse is overused when trying to explain why things are going so badly. There is a lot more than poor financial decision making involved, which leads to two year programs that last five or six years.

Does it not seem strange that students can register for fall

itself is not even the expensive part anymore. Books range from $100-250 a book… even books that have been used! Standing in line with $400 worth of books in your hand knowing you will not get a third of it back on book buyback week.

Going to FCC should not cost this much or take so long

Graduation Detour by

N A T I O N A L

photo by

while he rides his bike.

With the high speed limits posted on the roadsides, it is easy for hurried drivers to be oblivious to the features of their surroundings. Speeding is a large factor that contributes to pedestrian fatalities on the roadways.

Escobedo says it would be beneficial for the earth and those whom inhabit it if more people were to choose bicycles as their

g e t i n f o . n u . e d u /t r a n s f e r 9/9/10 12:36 PM

“Bottom line, the idea of FCC has changed. Instead of it being the expressway to fulfillng a career, it looks like a black hole that takes all of your money from your pockets.” classes six months in advance, and still manage to be on the waitlist?

What is going on here? The class sizes have been reduced almost 16 percent per classroom, making each room hold a lot less students than it can seat.

Is FCC crazy? FCC has doubled its student population, which is why the renovation of the old administration building took place. Not only will there be less space in each classroom, there may be empty, unused rooms because of the number of classes being offered is being cut.

This is causing students, at least a couple of semesters in, to get half of their general education out of the way. In order to be eligible for financial aid you might even resort to taking extra courses.

Of course while we are stuck paying for classes we do not need, tuition goes up on top of it. The sad part is that the class

to get out of. It leaves the question, does FCC really care? All signs point to no. Tech school is starting to look more appealing to attend.

Another problem that has just started is that we are not able to see a counselor to help choose courses we need. The one councilor in the front that answers basic questions tells you to look in the course catalogue. Not exactly helpful when you need to know what courses will help you get into a specific college.

Bottom line, the idea of FCC has changed. Instead of it being the expressway to a fulfilling career, it looks like a black hole that takes all of your money from your pockets. It may be much harder to get out of here, but it is not impossible. We are blessed to be able to receive an education. All that is left for us to do is to not get discouraged and keep going towards the light, even though it may be the size of a pinhole.

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March 16, 2011

Campus Voices

Alexis Abrahamson & Dylan Domingos Rampage Reporters

by

Brendan Raley & Ramiro Gudino Photographers

What are your expectations for registration?

Katie Pacella, Undecided

David Hallaway, Undecided

Ana Orozco, Psychology

“I am expecting to not get into all the classes I need. If I can’t get into my required math class, I will probably have to wait a whole semester to try and get into it again.”

“I hope I get into all of my classes, but I have a feeling I will be standing in some full classes.”

“Webadvisor could take forever, and most of the classes would be taken.”

Karina Niño, Undecided “It is going to be much more difficult this semester, I think. The important classes are always taken before you get a chance to even sign up for them.

It’s almost impossible to get everything you need.”

Pedro Ayala, Pre Med “I won’t get into any classes because I have a later registration date.”

Vince Gutierrez, Psychology “I have no clue. It all depends on the new bill that might pass.

There might not even be enough classes to take since the economy is doing so horribly.”

Lorraine Rivas, Social Work “It is going pretty well. I signed up for my classes already and I got into most of the ones I need. It may have even seemed easier this year than last to sign up.”

Phillip Martinez, Law “I hope it will go smoothly, it’s my first semester here so I expect to get into all the courses I need.”

Justin Jones, Undecided “I’m just hoping that they give me enough financial aid this semester so I can actually pay for the classes I get into. I’m just crossing my fingers.”

Japan: A Memory from Experience Crystal Hodges Rampage Reporter by

and deep culture. I think of their unique sites, smells, sounds, and tastes. More than anything, I think of the wonderful people I have met there during my visits.

During one of my trips t o

Photos by Crystal Hodges

I have been to Japan (Hokkaido and Tokyo) twice, and I’m heartbroken over the incidents last week.

Tears fill my eyes as images of the recent disasters in Japan flash before me. Many of my close friends live here, and I can’t get over the level of destruction and the lives lost.

Once I heard the news of the A Japanese girl Hodges met on her travels disasters in Japan, I immediately got online Japan, I had the honor visiting to check the status updates of an elementary school. Also, I my friends. Fortunately, some was able to visit a couple of of them were on a completely high school events with a team different island but still felt the of American treacherous five-minute earthquake. Then there are other friends who are just a mere 150 miles away from where the tsunami hit.

Many people know Japan as the place where Pokémon, Nikon, Sony, or Hello Kitty originated. Some read their Anime comic books. I often think about Japan and the many memories I had there. This week, however, these images have been coming to my mind more often.

When I think of Japan, I think of so much more than their students. clever inventions. I think of To this day, I can still rememtheir history, religion, traditions, ber the young Japanese girls

getting excited about meeting the American guys we had on our team, saying they all looked like Brad Pitt. I remember the children’s laughter as we tried to communicate with each other while playing their new games. I remember their faces of delight when I shared American candy with some of them. Most of all, I remember their happiness at sharing part of who they are with us – their culture – while we became friends.

While visiting Tokyo, my friends and I were riding an elevator in a train station with a sweet older Japanese woman. She got so excited to see us, and with a big smile she asked, “Can I practice my English with you?”

Watching the news, I now

Aerial view of Tokyo, Japan

see such devastation and many people who are emotionally broken. I see people who have

just had their lives turned upside down. Many have literally lost everything – including their family, friends, and even their whole village.

numbers you can text to donate money. Some airline carriers are accepting donations of frequent flier miles to help relief helpers

Hodges’ personal photos from her trips to Japan.

As I think about the people I have personally met and made a connection with, I can’t help but wonder what the long-term effects are going to be and whether they made it out okay. There are some people I’ll never know of their outcome after this week’s tragedy.

Maybe you’re like me. Maybe your heart as been breaking all week for the country of Japan, wondering, “What can I do to help?”

There are many places in which you can donate money.

Just to name a few: American Red Cross Salvation Army Save the Children International Medical Corps Some cell phone carriers have

who are traveling to and from Japan. Lady Gaga has even created her own bracelet, “We pray for Japan” in both English and Japanese.

If you have family and friends in Japan, cell phone carriers, such as Sprint, AT&T, and Verizon are currently setting up a temporary billing relief system.

This will be for limited calls and text messages to the country as people try to get in touch with loved ones.

Despite the fact, we’re over 10,000 miles away from where disaster hit, we can still help to make a difference. If you can’t afford to donate, always remember: prayer is such a strong and powerful thing to give and is much needed.

Sports

13

March 16, 2011

Women’s Basketball Run Ends in Quarterfinal

By Nathan Alonzo Rampage Reporter The Fresno City College Women’s Basketball season came to an end in an 80-75 loss to the No.8 seeded Sierra Wolverines (20-11) last Wednesday night here at FCC, the Rams Finished the season with an overall 26-7 record.Leading the Rams were Sophomore Lacey Gibbons with 17, Nicole Chappele 13, and Tabitha Torres with 13.

Despite a hot first half, the Rams saw their lead fizz away as the Wolverines started to heat up, scoring

two 3-point shots and capitalizing on the Ram’s miscues.

The Wolverines came back and erased a 10-point deficit to defeat the Top-seeded Rams. Sierra’s surge came during the last eight minutes of the game where the Rams let up on defense as Sierra started to knock down shots that eventually put them ahead.

At the end of the game Sophomore Marlee Wilkinson said, “ We played hard, but at the end it came down to playing defense; we could have played better; they just kept making their shots.”

The Wolverines shot 48 percent

from the field and were led in scoring by Tori Carroll 19, Victoria Turner 16, Samantha Hodge, and Ashlyn Lussier 13. The Wolverines gained momentum by capitalizing on FCC’s missed shots and turnovers as the game drew to a close.

In an interview with the Fresno Bee, Sierra Head Coach Brandie Murrish attributed the win to their tough pre-season schedule, with nine out of ten of Sierra’s losses came to teams ranked in the state’s top 10. “That prepared us to win in March, our kids had the desire and never gave up,” Murrish said.

The Rams, who are known all

around the conference and state for their tough full court press on opponents throughout the game, decided to play a zone defense against the Wolverines. Tessler said, “We did not press them, and I wouldn’t have gone back and pressed them if I had to go back and do it again.”

The Wolverines were able to capitalize on the Rams running a zone defense by getting open in space and making baskets and shooting uncharacteristically well considering their previous shooting percentages and their 48 percent shooting average in the game against the Rams.

Freshman Serena Semaya said that the Rams gave Sierra too many chances to get back into the game when they were down 12 points in the second half. “We were taking too many chances and not playing smart,” she said With the top seeded Rams out of the race for a state championship, head coach Brian Tessler is disappointed yet proud of the way his team played against Sierra. “They played really hard,” Tessler said.

“But you’re always disappointed for your kids because you know how badly they wanted to get to the state tournament.”

Photos by Ramiro Gudino

FCC Women’s Basketball lost to Sierra 85-75 in the second round of the quarter finals. The Rams finished their season 26-7.

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14

March 16, 2011

Sports

94-84 Semi Final Loss Ends Men’s Basketball Season

By Nathan Alonzo Rampage Reporter

Rams 42-41 going into halftime.

The Rams opened the second half with a showcase on offense that would eventually put them ahead for good and give them the victory. In an interview with Recordnet.com, Delta head coach Rich Ressa said that the Rams use intense pressure to wear down teams that they play. “We played a very well disciplined Fresno City team,” said Ressa.

Leading the Rams in scoring against Delta was Percy Lemle with 23 points, Quinton Watkins with 14 and Cheyanne Alcala with 11. After the game, Rams head coach Ed Madec said, “I’m really

the claim by pulling a 360 degree spin for a layup to bring the entire crowd to their feet. “I’m not surprised at all, I said it from the very beginning he’s the best player in the state and he’s proving it.”

Leading the Rams in scoring was Watkins with 22, Fletcher, Earl Jefferson, and Percy Lemle all with 11 points. The win against Yuba gave Madec his 150th win in his five seasons with the Rams as well as giving the Rams their 30th straight victory this season.

The keys to victory according to some of the Rams players were their intensity and their ability to rise to the occasion. Watkins said

This Saturday the season came to an end for the Fresno City College Mens Basketball team in a Northern-Region Playoff SemiFinal 94-84 loss to Citrus college in Ventura.

The Rams, a team that usually relies on 3-pointer’s and other big shots came out cold and stayed that way for most of the night, scoring 39.7 percent from the field and going 5-22 from beyond the three-point line. The opposing Citrus Owls capitalized on the Rams lack of scoring by putting up points early and scoring throughout the game and staying in the lead. The Owls scored 66.7 “I prefer going to the games here percent and went into the locker room at halftime with an 44-32 because the action is intense and lead. it’s much cheaper that going to One of the big contributors for the Rams was Quinton Watkins. the games at state.”

Watkins came off the bench and scored 31 points and brought the Rams within six points of tying the game late in the second half.

Also leading the Rams in scoring were Percy Lemle with 13, and proud of the way my team played that what helped them win was, Felix Mapanda with 9 points. tonight, they played very well and “Our poise at the end of the game, and how hard we played.”

The Rams held a 31-2 record competed very hard.”

This season, the Rams are in the and won 26 straight games this In the Sweet Sixteen round of The Rams ended with a 32-2 season. season before losing to Citrus on the playoffs the Rams played the Elite Eight for the seventh time in Saturday night. This post season No.7 seeded Yuba College 49ers. the last eight years. In this year’s the games have been filled with The 49ers are one of only two Elite Eight, the Rams took on the many highlight reel plays courtesy teams that the Rams lost to this No.3 seed Diablo Valley. Going of players. Fans said that they season. The Rams came into the into this matchup, the game plan

by Tomas Kassahun For Sodersten, the feeling of have enjoyed watching Quinton game and started off slowly on according to Sophomore Alex losing is too familiar. “I played Watkins and his spins-while in offense allowing Yuba to keep up, Fletcher, was to, “not let them run Rampage Reporter on a 7-win team in Porterville. I the air to make a basket, as well as well as give the crowd plenty their half court offense and keep From the very beginning, the don’t want to go back to that,” as Alex Fletcher’s 3-point shots to talk about as two Yuba players the tempo up.” bar was set high for this year’s he said. And although the Rams going in time after time. “It’s re- dunked early on in the game. GoThe Rams found it hard to keep Fresno City College Baseball seem to be getting back on the ally exciting to watch,” says FCC ing into halftime the Rams held a Diablo Valley from scoring early team. The Rams came into the winning track, Sodersten be- student Maria Tarazos. “I prefer narrow four point lead. in the game, with Diablo Valley season ranked as the number lieves the Rams have not yet going to the games here because Going into the second half the getting many open shots. With two team in the conference and completely turned it around. the action is intense and it’s much Rams lived up to Madec’s claim a fast paced first half for both had high hopes of making it to “We’re still figuring out who we cheaper that going to the games that the Rams are, “The most teams the Rams went into the the state championship. But they are. We’re still getting better,” at state.” exciting basketball around.” The locker room at halftime with a quickly learned just how difficult said Sodersten.”We have to hit After a first round bye, the Rams surged ahead in the third 39-31 lead. it would be to meet those high better with runners in scoring Rams hosted the No.15 seed Delta quarter with a 7-0 run when WatLeading the Rams in scoring expectations. position and we have to play as College and came away with an kins, who Madec claimed is the were Watkins with 17, Jefferson The season kicked off with a a team.” The Rams are fourth in 89-77 victory where Delta led the best player in the state, validated 16, and Percy Lemle with 10. three game series against Taft, the Central Valley with a batting during which the Rams lost all average of .270 and fifth with a three games. As one of the top total of 71 runs batted in. teams, the Rams faced their opInfield Player Jeff Phillips ponents’ best just about every also realizes the potential on Tuition costs shouldn’t stop you game. And with injuries to sevthe team. “This team has more eral key players, the Rams didn’t from reaching your goals in life. By than enough talent to win,” said have the record they expected. joining the Army National Guard, Phillips. “We are still trying to After 16 games, they had a reyou’ll receive the money you need get our groove back. We haven’t cord of nine and seven. to help pay for college as well as the played Fresno City College In the midst of adversity howBaseball yet.” skills and training you need to get the ever, the Rams stayed on the As one of the older guys on the career you want. If you’re looking same page and slowly returned team, Phillips has taken on the to their winning ways. to get through college, with the leadership role. “I try to pick up “The kids are winners. They Army National Guard, you can! the players when they’re down,” have a winning attitude. We can said Phillips.”There’s no panic overcome and still make a push in this team. We have a very to win the league,” said head young team, but we have depth. coach Ron Scott.”Every BaseWe’re much better than what our ball team goes through adversity. record shows.”

Ours just happened to be in the The schedule doesn’t get much beginning.” easier for the Rams. In the next The season highlight for the NIA two weeks, they will complete a C ALIFOR Rams came against the Chabot three game series with Reedley Gladiators when they pulled out and Merced, who are both maka 3-2 victory after 12 innings. ing a push for the league title in rd nt Standa “They’re a good team. They beat State Fo ns Regular Sa the Central Valley.

Font: Gill us in the past, but we showed .25 Outline: “We still control our own Size: 24pt that we can beat anyone,” said 32 Tracking: 0% destiny,” said Coach Scott.”We l Scale: 11 outfielder Mitchell Sodersten, Horizonta 105% depend on ourselves. No one ical Scale: rt Ve NATIONALGUARD.com • 1-800-GO-GUARD who is among the leaders in else.” doubles with a total of six Photo by Tutmoses Brown

-Maria tazos,FCC Student

Goals High for Baseball team

PAY OFF

YOUR EDUCATION

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Sports

March 16, 2011

15

Despite Setbacks, Cederquist is Determined to Fulfill Dream

by Jessica

Harrington Rampage Reporter

a batting average of .367, slugging percentage of .517, .443 on base percentage, 12 runs scored, 22 hits, and 7 doubles. He is also ranked second in RBIs and is tied for the lead in triples. This year, Cederquist’s goal is to win the state championship.

In the past three years, Cederquist has attended several different colleges, including California State University Fresno and Fresno City College. However, after this semester, Cederquist is heading to Santa Clara University on a scholarship.

He will graduate with his Associates Degree in Business after this semester and plans to continue his baseball career at Santa Clara. “After I left Fresno State, I was lucky enough that Santa Clara had open positions and still wanted me,” he said.

“They offered me another scholarship, and I agreed to go.” At Santa Clara, Cederquist wants to perform at the top level and help the team win the Conference Championships by contributing in any way possible.

While Cederquist’s road has not been completely ideal, he continues to play baseball. His ultimate goal is to play in the Major League, whether it is after this season or after Santa Clara. He says, “I just want the chance to play for any pro team possible.”

Clay Cederquist is determined to play in MLB.

Photo by Abel Cortez

Clay Cederquist has been playing baseball as long as he can remember, learning from his dad and brother as a little boy. He played baseball on multiple summer league teams and throughout high school. Cederquist remembers his most memorable moment playing baseball was in his junior year. “We won the Valley Championships against Bakersfield Christian,” he says.

At 21 years old, Cederquist has a long list of awards and accomplishments as a baseball player. In high school, he was two-time First Team All-Fresno Bee, Division V State Player of the Year, and the West Sequoia League MVP. Recently, Clay was named to the Pre-son All State Baseball team. “I don’t remember all of the rewards I have received because the awards are extra, they don’t really matter,” Cederquist said.

Despite sitting out his senior year due to a torn labrum muscle in his shoulder, Cederquist was a top pick for Division 1 colleges such as University of California Berkeley, California State University San Diego, Cal Poly, UC Irvine, California State University Fresno, and Santa Clara University. His top two choices

were Fresno and Santa Clara.

Cederquist said he decided to sign with Fresno State. “It was a place that my friends and family could go watch me play,” he said.

“I also grew up around here, so I thought it would be best.” After signing with Fresno State, Cederquist learned that he was also drafted in the late rounds to the Seattle Mariners, a Major League Baseball team, but he couldn’t go because he had already signed with a college.

“It would have been hard to pass up playing pro ball if I had stayed healthy my senior year of high school,” Cederquist said.

His first year at Fresno State wasn’t the dream that Cederquist had imagined; he received limited playing time and only saw 18 at bats. In those 18 at bats, Cederquist had a triple, a homerun and 7 RBIs; boosting his batting average to .444 and his slugging percentage to .722.

At the end of the season, Cederquist decided to leave Fresno State in order to seek more playing time. “It was a tough decision, but I left on good terms,” he said. “I have no regrets signing with Fresno State.”

Leaving Fresno State, Cederquist headed to Fresno City College to become a Ram. At FCC, he is the starting first baseman and currently leads the team with

Voices of FCC

At the Rally for Community Unity

Karla Armenata – Medical Ad ministration “I am here because I care about my education and the future of others as well. I believe that the students’ word has a lot of power and this showcase will help.”

Richard Graham – Music and Political Science “I’m here because we are trying to figure out how to keep the college alive and not cut any programs because the junior college helps an enormous amount of people.”

Shelby Maxwell – Philosophy “This showcase is important on a grand scale; I think this is something bigger that is at work and form it, I hope the media coverage will help that way the rest of the community knows what we’re doing. ”

Reggie DeLeon – Chiropractor “They’re making the budget cuts now. They’re making it hard for people to be able to go to school.

I can’t imagine how hard it’s going to be for my kids to come to school.”

Jerry Garcia – Chicano Latino Studies “If we allow these budget cuts, then we’re cutting our own throats. They pay more for people in jail than they do for education; there is something wrong with that. The services they want to cut are the services that directly affect our people. That is why I’m here. I’m not going to let that happen without a fight.”

Maribel Torres – Nursing

“It’s horrible knowing it’s a possibility that I might not be able to finish my education at a certain time frame because of the budget cuts. Who knows, maybe next semester they won’t have the classes I need.”

Benjamin Andersen – Geophysics

I feel like this showcase is a good first step in helping the budget crisis at this point. Do I think that it is enough? No, not at all, but I think it’s going to help and show the community good things.

Community awareness is the biggest thing I hope this will accomplish. ”

Vernon Martin – Art Major

“You have a lot of free riders.

It’s important for everybody to remember this is not a time to be a free rider. This is a time to become part of the group.

It’s time to go out there and let your voice be heard.”

Royce Alonzo – Undecided

“I am here to support the college.

I don’t know if the showcase will help, but it is a good start. This is important to me because it is important to everyone else. I want things to change, that is why I am here. “