Spring 2013 Issue 7

MAY 8, 2013

Volume CXXIV Issue 7

FREE

RAMPAGE

THE AWARD-WINNING, STUDENT-RUN NEWSPAPER PROUDLY SERVING FRESNO CITY COLLEGE AND ITS COMMUNITY SINCE 1949.

STATE CHAMPIONS Photo/Karen West

PAGE 15

GRADUATION FEVER GRIPS Fresno City College graduates enter the FCC Theatre during the 10th Annual Latino Graduation Celebration held on May 3, 2013. The event was sponsored by the Latino Faculty and Staff Association. Photo/Kevynn Gomez

Latino graduates celebrated

Commencement at Selland Arena

BY KEVYNN GOMEZ

BY COLBY TIBBET

kgomez@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College recently hosted the 10th annual Latino Graduation Celebration on May 3 at the FCC Theatre. The event recognized students united by their shared heritage and dedication to education.

Each of the nearly 60 students who participated was presented with a certificate and allowed to give a brief speech. The free event concluded with cake and refreshments..

FCC student Jesus Bravo received the Dean’s Medallion of Excellence

ctibbet@therampageonline.com

Award for the Applied Technology Division, an award that is given to eight students in each academic division along with a $500 scholarship.

Claudia Habib, FCC graduate and current Reedley College Interim Dean of Instruction for Agriculture and Natural Resources served as the keynote speaker. Habib is a Colombian native.

The bilingual event, first held at FCC in 2003, was sponsored by the l SEE GRADUATION ON PAGE 2

More than 1,200 Fresno City College students will be receiving their associate degrees on May 17 at a celebration in the Selland Arena.

Although many students view FCC as a conduit to four-year colleges, many students use the associate degrees or certificate programs as a quick gateway to jobs and other opportunities in their communities.

“Not all students want to transfer,” said FCC President Tony Cantu.

“I don’t think it’s one or the other. l

What’s important is that students meet their goals, no matter what path they take.”

The college will be holding separate ceremonies for students receiving certificates and associate degrees.

The commencement ceremony for associate degrees will be on May 17 at the Selland Arena.

The Certif icate and Honors Recognition Ceremony will be held on May 11 at the Old Administration SEE COMMENCEMENT ON PAGE 3

Changes to sports policy affect practice

BY TOMAS KASSAHUN

tkassahun@therampageonline.com

It is a far too common story – the star college athlete, whose name is recognizable all over the country, graduates from college with a bachelor’s degree but can’t read.

In an effort to improve academic performance of athletes and balance athletics with academics, the California Community College Athletics Association has made changes to existing rules, effective July 1, 2013.

The new rules regulate how much time coaches can meet with their teams as well as the nature of physical training that can go on during the offseason. Athletic coaches can only meet with their team for a maximum of 175 hours and no more than 12 hours per week during the offseason, according to the new rule.

“We sometimes forget we are at a community college and our challenge

is to get these student-athletes into a mindset that getting a degree will have long lasting benefits throughout their life,” said Brian Tessler, Fresno City College’s women’s basketball coach.

The intent of the new legislation, as described in the 2012-2013 CCCAA Final Legislation Report, is to standardize the number of hours that CCCAA student athletes are allowed to participate in countable athletically related activities outside of the traditional season of sport.

This new regulation is expected to benefit students and athletic programs. Presently, coaches can only meet with their team in the confines of a class during the offseason. This has meant that student-athletes who did not have a team class with their coaches could not meet with their coaches during l SEE PRACTICE ON PAGE 5

NEWS s

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MAY 08 2013

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Rampage Staff

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

Editor-in-Chief Troy Pope Managing Editor Sydney Excinia Production Manager News Editor Kaitlin Regan Opinion Editor Olga Verkhotina Arts & Entertainment Editor Matthew Elliott Sports Editor Tomas Kassahun Graphics Manager Troy Pope Photo Editor Karen West Art Director Lauren Baker C.G. Editor Adan De la Cerda Copy Chief Jordan Russell Copy Editors Pabel Lopez Heather Jamieson-Brown Kevynn Gomez Akeem Spearman Business Manager Sydney Excinia Reporters Victor Aparicio Keaundrey Clark Alyce Diaz Patrick Forrest Jere Kirkland Daisy Martinez Danielle Mehas August Promnitz Colby Tibbet Photojournalists Joshua Blocher Michael Monroy Taze Raney Taylor Rodriguez Felisha Sanchez Darlene Wendels Faculty Adviser Dr. Dympna Ugwu-Oju Tip Line: 559.442.8263 Twitter.com/FCCRampage Facebook.com/FCCRampage Instagram.com/FCCRampage YouTube.com/RampageNewsroom Send Questions or Letters to the Editor to:

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The Rampage 1101 E. University Ave Fresno, CA 93741

Journalism Association of Community Colleges

Fresno City College

SENT BY ALYSE CARTER ASG Senator at Large alysekc@gmail.com

It’s the end of yet another semester. It seems as if it has gone by so quickly, yet in the same regard, slowly.

I know I feel like taking a break after this chaotic mess of final projects and tests is over. But, I digress. This semester, I had the pleasure of being appointed as a senator at large for the Fresno City College Associated Student Government.

I became involved with the office at the beginning of the semester.

There was a couch in the office, and a sense of self-importance as people came and went for free scantrons

Graduation l CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Latino Faculty and Staff Association, which works as an independent organization to raise funds each spring for the graduation.

Lourdes Oliva, producer at radio station Radio Bilingue, served as Master of Ceremonies for the graduation, while Mariachi Tenochtitlan, a mariachi band, performed traditional Mexican songs to welcome students and their family.

LFSA president and Extended Opportunity Program and Services counselor, Sonia Lupian played an integral role in the event that had been in preparation since winter of last year.

Lupian said that her participation in LFSA allows her to spearhead an organization representing her peers and her students, and for that she is appreciative.

“I’m really honored to be a part of the association. It keeps me really busy,” she stated. “LFSA helps us have a voice as Latino staff and to help the students.”

Lupian serves as the Spanishspeaking counselor for many students at FCC, so the Latino Graduation Celebration is a way to display the proud and dedication all Latino faculty and staff members have for the graduating students.

“It’s a good feeling to know that we do advocate for our students and we are here gathering for our students,” Lupian explained.

My semester with ASG with a spring 2013 ASB card. There’s a microwave for anyone’s use, far too many anti-smoking pamphlets for me to stray my quitters course, and a picture of the 44th President tacked to the wall above a whiteboard. I had never really thought to actually look into student government at the collegiate level.

I had never shown any interest in the subject when I was younger, so why now?

I won’t say initially it was that I knew someone in the office. I came almost every day in the morning at the beginning of the semester. It was simply a place where I could drink my coffee in the morning and work on homework or catch up on some reading.

A calm little oasis located above the Café where I was introduced to the entire ASG Senate and Executive Board. Then over time, being that I happened to spend so much of my time in the office, I was asked why hadn’t joined a committee or two.

So, I did, and that allowed me to get a feel for the office, the students that participate and the general rules of the microwaves and fridge.

Although this semester did seem to have some drama with senators, (not to mention the dish situation) the senate

as a whole seemed to do a great job with the resources available.

When you do really great on a project, you perform the research, and get overtaken by it. You know, you really try, and it simply gets a passing grade, without any mention of your work. “Hey I did great on that! Why don’t they appreciate my effort, don’t I deserve a little something extra?”

That was a small part of my reaction, but it wasn’t the only one. Instead, I remembered why most of the people in the office volunteer their time. It’s an option.

A group of people who you can come and talk to, about your classes as well as your life inside and outside of school. You can explore whether you are able to change something you dislike about your school experience, and if it’s in your and our power actually get it done!

If all you want is a warm meal and a couch to sit on, come and heat up your lunch and sit down for a moment. We are always here to listen, bring up a concern you have about the campus, vent your frustration about the general system of FCC or come to sing it’s praises, we don’t judge, whatever is on your mind. Do you ever feel like doing any of those things? That’s what we’re here for, for you.

Yet the celebration would never exist without Pedro Agustin Lango, the founder of the Latino Graduation Celebration in Bakersfield.

Lango, who was present at this year’s celebration, said he finds the casual atmosphere and bilingual ceremony to be an essential part of keeping the event distinctly Latino.

“I always wanted to keep our culture,” Lango said. “The one thing that was important to me was to let the students speak.”

As shown by the formal attire without caps and gowns, large RSVP limit and young children and babies, the Latino Graduation Celebration is a relaxed event, never meant to eclipse the importance of family in Latino traditions.

LFSA raise their funds throughout the year, with their annual winetasting event a continual success and breadwinner for their Latino Graduation Celebration financial needs.

The FCC faculty and staff members involved work on the annual graduation solely as volunteer work; aside from working at FCC, they do not get paid to contribute to the ceremony.For those that do help out, the outcome is always rewarding even with its challenges.

Francisco Corchado, Health Sciences counselor at FCC and chair for this year’s Latino Graduation Celebration, has learned to prioritize his schedule to keep him capable of working towards this end-of-the-year event.

“It’s just a matter of managing time because you still have to do your job, you have to make phone calls, contact a lot of people,” Corchado said.

“You want to make sure everything goes well, so it can be stressful at

times, but I always enjoy a challenge so it was fun.”

Franklin Jacinto, a Spanish major who graduated during the ceremony, first began attending FCC in 2009 after several years at California State University, Long Beach and Cerritos College. He plans to continue his education at Fresno Pacific University.

His career goals include missionary work throughout Central and South America and becoming a translator for the United Nations.

Jacinto was relieved and excited when considering his educational accomplishment.

“It was a long road. Honestly I never thought I’d see this day ... but the day finally came and I’m happy to be here,” he stated.

The Latino Graduation Celebration is an important and symbolic step for many students in their quest for education. Although the celebration is only a pause in their progression through the educational system, for many students it is a momentous and emotional occasion necessary to celebrate.

For Corchado, who is passionate about helping students, the ceremony is unique due to its ability to give students a voice before they move on to other academic institutions. In comparison to the large and lengthy traditional graduation ceremony held at FCC, the LFSA-hosted graduation is a special opportunity to congratulate students in an intimate way.

“I think it’s more personal, because again these students give up a lot,” Corchado said.

“They sacrifice a lot, and they know that.” l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 05.08.2013

NEWS

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CALHOUN SITUATION UNRESOLVED

BY TROY POPE

tpope@therampageonline.com

BY PABEL LOPEZ

plopez@therampageonline.com

It has been more than a month since a Fresno City College instructor allegedly attacked a student in the Old Administration Building. The student is moving on with her education, while the instructor remains on administrative leave. His arraignment is scheduled for June 19.

Brian Calhoun, 69, education instructor, had started that fateful morning, intending to teach his class at 11 a.m., but it was not to be.

According to the eyewitness statements from interviews and the police report, Calhoun physically assaulted 19-year-old journalism major Kevynn Gomez.

Several witnesses said that Calhoun was upset that Gomez’s class had run a few minutes over and disrupted the class’ midterm. Gomez said Calhoun was saying things like, “You guys need to get out of here” and “you’re not supposed to be here.”

Gomez and the other students in her class were forced to turn in their unfinished midterms and leave the classroom.

Gomez said that as she walked out of the classroom, she said, “Piss off a--hole” as she passed Calhoun and proceeded into the hallway. Calhoun followed her.

In the hallway, Calhoun confronted Gomez.

He pushed her against the wall and pressed his forearm across her chest to keep her motionless.

G o m e z stands 5 feet tall, while Calhoun measures closer to 6 feet.

Gomez said she shouted at Calhoun to let her go, but he yelled at her, “Who do you think you are?” and “You can’t say that to me.”

Calhoun began to drag Gomez back into the classroom while she struggled to get away from him.

She tried to free herself from him. “I got one of my hands free and started hitting him,” Gomez said.

Then, Calhoun lifted her up and threw her onto the floor, Gomez said.

Several witnesses, including 19-year-old education major Cori Murphy, corroborate Gomez’s story.

Murphy is in Calhoun’s class and was waiting for it to begin when the incident occurred. “[Calhoun] kept asking for her name and then he grabbed [Gomez] by the wrist and tried to pull her inside the classroom,” Murphy said. “[Gomez] kept telling [Calhoun] to let go and to stop touching her, and he didn’t [stop].”

Jacob Martinez, a 21-year-old liberal arts major and baseball player, was in the OAB to attend Calhoun’s class. He saw the altercation take place.

Martinez said Calhoun repeatedly walked in and out of Gomez’s class.

Although he didn’t hear what the argument

was about, Martinez said he witnessed its escalation.

“Dr. Calhoun grabs her and throws her against the wall and has full wrist control on her,” Martinez said. “She said ‘let go’ and he didn’t let go.”

Martinez said that’s when Gomez struck Calhoun in the face.

Martinez said that Calhoun threw Gomez into the ground, and that Gomez “defended herself” by kicking Calhoun in the leg area.

“After that, it looked like he was going to start smashing her on the ground, like physically beating her,” Martinez said.

That was when he and several others pulled Calhoun away from Gomez while others helped Gomez to her feet.

Calhoun’s camp paints a different picture.

Both Calhoun and his lawyer, Roger Nuttal, declined to be interviewed by the Rampage. Nuttal, however, told his client’s version of events to ABC30.

“So he’s waiting outside, and this female student comes out and proceeds to call him an ‘a--hole mother f---er,’” Nuttal said. “And then he gets slugged in the nose by her,” causing Calhoun’s nose to bleed. “ That’s not his style. [Attacking students.] He’s too smart for that.

You don’t attack people; he’s not a violent person,” Nuttal said. “I question the veracity of that young woman, particularly in light of the manner in which she conducted herself.”

On top of Martinez’s and Murphy’s statements, at least six additional witnesses gave their statements to police. They corroborate Gomez’s version of events.

There is a police report with Calhoun’s statement, however, the State Center Community College District has declined to release it to the public.

Although Calhoun has had a history with alcohol, being arrested for DUI in 2004, SCCCD Police Chief Bruce Hartman said that Calhoun was not given a sobriety test after being arrested and cited in the OAB on March 22.

Hartman said that Calhoun didn’t appear to be visibly intoxicated and didn’t feel the need to perform one.

Meanwhile, the semester is coming to an end and the students in Calhoun’s classes have had to adjust to new teachers.

“We had such a short time to get used to a new teacher, but she’s been really helpful,” Murphy said.

“We’re just basically learning everything straight from our textbook instead of using [Calhoun’s] Power Points.”

Murphy’s substitute instructor, Loretta Aragon, has a different approach than the students were accustomed to, and allows the students time

“Although I did say something to him, he had no right to touch me.”

-Kevynn Gomez

Commencement l CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Building on campus.

Harry Edwards, a sociology professor at the University of California, Berkeley, will be the guest speaker at the commencement ceremony.

The FCC alumnus started his academic career at the college before heading to San Jose State

University and then to Cornell University. He is the author of the book, “The Revolt of The Black Athlete.” Also attending will be the administration staff, including the president of the college, members of the Board of Trustees, and the chancellor.

Seventy five percent of FCC’s graduates are women, according to Frances Lippman, admissions and record manager. This data ref lects a larger trend in the United States, with 25 percent fewer men graduating than women, according to The Census Bureau. For Honors and Certificates recipients on campus, the margin is smaller, with about 50 percent for men and women.

Dr. Brain Calhoun leaving his office after being put on administrative leave on April 1, 2013.

Photo/Karen West to break up into groups and work collaboratively.

“I like the visual aspect of Power Points, but I like being able to break up into groups and actually discuss things with other students,” Murphy said.

Aragon has enjoyed the experience of teaching the class while Calhoun is on leave.

“I was told where he sort of left off and then picked up from there,” she said.

Aragon is just one of the teachers the college assigned Calhoun’s classes.

“As a teacher, it is always tough to walk in in the middle of an ongoing class and step in behind another teacher,” Aragon said. “It’s not your class, so you have to work on developing the relationships with the students and the class and try to develop a positive learning climate in here when you just have a shorter amount of time to do that.”

It is unknown if Calhoun will return in the fall, or if FCC will look to distance itself from his actions and let him go.

Gomez says that Calhoun violated her rights by putting his hands on her, and her attorney, Catherine Campbell, agrees.

“It would be an understatement to say [Calhoun] overreacted,” Campbell said. “What [Calhoun] did was outrageous; almost unbelievable. It makes one question his mental health.”

Some have speculated that Gomez got what she had coming to her, but she disagrees.

“Although I did say something to him,” Gomez said, “he had no right to touch me.” l TWITTER.COM/DARKTROY l TWITTER.COM/PABELLOPEZ

This year’s numbers are slightly higher than the previous year, when 983 students receiving either an associate of arts or science degree, according to the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office.

Students say that their achievement reflects not only their own effort, but the effort of the instructors and staff guiding them towards success.

“Its very important not only for the campus but the students themselves,” said Cantu. “With these degrees and certificates, they are now ready for jobs and the workforce.” l TWITTER.COM/ROBOTMILK

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05.08.2013 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

Ram Slam aids students It’s time for a summer job

BY DAISY MARTINEZ

dmartinez@therampageonline.com

From left to right: Hazel-Faye Solano, Ron Mabry and Paymon Bonyadi volunteering to help students stay prepared for finals during Ram Slam on May 7, 2013. Photo/Karen West

BY COLBY TIBBET

ctibbet@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College’s Associated Student Government is offering help to ease the stresses of the long, tedious days of finals week.

Ram Slam, previously called Finals Aid Week, will be held in the tutorial center on May 7,8 and 9 from 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. and on Saturday, May 11 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ASG will be providing tutors as well as materials such as Scantrons and that ever-important cup of coffee, for students seeking help.

The tutorial center will be offering help as well as a haven for students who have too many distractions at home and need to be in an environment that promotes preparing for the eventual week of finals.

“When you have children or other responsibilities, it’s hard to get some studying done at home,” said ASG President Monique Reyna. “If you’re at school surrounded by other students studying, you’re more likely to do the same.”

Reyna and other members of the ASG will be in attendance for the event and ready to help students with their needs. Last semester alone, more than 450 students took advantage of the resource over the span of

the week. ASG would like to see even more students participate this semester.

“We hope to get a good number of students to come out,” Reyna said. “If we can help at least one student get better grades, then I’ll consider that a success. But of course we’re hoping for more than just one.”

Besides offering materials that will help students during this stressful time, ASG will have the library’s reference area and media center open for students.

“I think it would be really helpful,” said Jamie Quinlan, FCC student. “It’s good that the times are flexible for my schedule.”

She said that Ram Slam will not only help improve her grades and study habits for finals, but will give her the encouragement she needs to endure finals week.

“It’s hard for me to focus on studying alone,” Quinlan said. “It’s nice to have someone who can help, someone who knows what they are talking about.”

For more information regarding Ram Slam, visit the ASG office in SC-205 above the bookstore. l TWITTER.COM/ROBOTMILK

Summer is just around the corner, and what better way to spend your summer than by earning cash? Summer is a season just like Christmas: it’s one of the best times to look for jobs.

If you’ve planned to work over the summer and don’t where to start looking, here are some ideas that might help you earn the summer cash you need.

Now is the time to apply for full-time and part-time positions to increase your chances of getting hired. Depending on what job you want for the summer, Fresno has many local entertainment centers that hire students just for summer.

The Island Waterpark, Wild Water Adventure Park and Blackbeard’s are just some of many that are accepting applications now.

College students have a higher chance of getting hired during the summer because companies want employees with flexible hours. Students who are off from school during this time are much more flexible.

For Fresno City College students who are unsure of where to start, the college’s Career and Employment Center is a good starting point.

The Center’s website offers students the option to search FCC’s own database of job listings as well as listings on California Career Zone and California Career Café. The latter two databases offer students options to complete career assessments and explore educational paths in addition to searching for what companies are hiring and what their schedule and starting pay is.

The Center also helps

you find what career you’re most interested in, based on your responses to survey questions.

FCC student May Lee said, “I thought I wanted to be a business major, but after I visited the Employment Resource Center, I discovered I wanted to be a teacher.”

To find the current jobs posted through FCC’s Career and Employment Resource Center, select the “Career & Employment Center” option under the FCC website’s “For Students” tab.

Davis is one of many students who take advantage of these services through the FCC website. When you access FCC’s Career and Employment Center website, you have the option of searching for oncampus or off-campus jobs.

Once you’ve selected your option, you are given a list of job openings and whom to contact or send your resume to. You’re also given the hours and starting pay for most of the jobs.

Though navigating the website can be a convenient option for many students, you can also access services through the Career and Employment Center’s on-campus location in LI-147. There, you can look for jobs and get help on creating your resume and help on what to add to your application.

“I found my summer job through FCC Employment Center,” said Mary Davis, FCC student. “I found it useful to look for a job through the employment center. I was able to see what benefits me the most.” l TWITTER.COM/FLOWERDAZY

Students can visit the employment resource center located in the media center to find out about job opportunities and more.

Photo/Taylor Rodriguez

NEWS

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 05.08.2013

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DISTRICT APPROVES SABBATICALS

BY MATTHEW ELLIOTT

melliott@therampageonline.com

On Tuesday May 7, the State Center Community College District Board of Trustees approved seven full-time SCCCD faculty members for sabbatical leave, including four employees from Fresno City College.

The four college employees include music instructor Mike Dana, business instructor Marianne Dunkin, geography instructor Peter Meserve and journalism instructor Dympna Ugwu-Oju. Sabbaticals are an opportunity for instructors to receive most or all of their full-time pay and benefits during their approved leave of absence. It is designed to allow select faculty to pursue subjects that improve their administrative skills or course curriculums.

The privilege of taking a six month or one year sabbatical leave is built into SCCCD full-time contracts.

The 2011 contract states that, “Sabbatical leaves shall be granted to unit members, under provisions of the Education Code, for the purpose of carrying out an approved program which will enable the unit member to provide improved service to the District and its students.

Consideration will be given to programs which involve an appropriate program of organized study, research, or travel.”

The service is reserved to instructors who fulfill certain criteria including consecutive full-time service at the college for at least six years, serve the college for a minimum of two years following their leave of absence. Upon return, faculty members are required to submit a report to the Committee for Sabbatical Leaves within six months.

Those on a six-month leave of absence will continue to build their retirement, receive 100 percent of their pay and various other full-time benefits.

Those taking a full-year leave of absence receive 65 percent of their salary. Faculty members have the option of seeking additional employment to recoup the 35 percent cut from their salary, so long as the additional revenue so long as the total between the two revenue sources does not exceed the equivalent of 100 percent SCCCD salary pay.

In recently opting to move forward with several faculty sabbaticals, committee chairperson and vice president of instruction Dr. Tim Woods stated that, “a total of 7 sabbaticals had been approved by the Board: 4 – FCC, 2- Reedley, 1 – Willow International.”

For many, the approval of sabbaticals represents a return to budgetary stability. Due to financial cuts following the national and state revenue crisis, and prior to the passage of Proposition 30, sabbatical leave approvals were susPresident Tony Contou speaking at the Board of Trustee’s pended.

“Sabbaticals were put on hold by the meeting on May 7, 2013. Photo/Kevynn Gomez Board of Trustees back when the economy and State funding were beginning to four FCC faculty members approved in this latest take a turn for the worse,” Woods said. round. During his sabbatical leave, Dana plans to Since that time, with the help of the passage hopefully complete his doctorate in music educaof Proposition 30, federal and state budgets have tion from Boston University. stabilized. As a result, SCCCD campuses can once Although the temporary suspension of sabagain balance their budgets. baticals pushed back the potential completion of “The economy and potential State funding his doctorate, Dana is thankful to finally receive appear to be improving,” said Woods. “Although it the opportunity. is still uncertain as to how much improvement will “I’m definitely elated that Woods approved occur, the Board has approved a few sabbaticals to the sabbaticals. I’m grateful to be included,” he said. move forward.”

“But there are other worthy candidates out there, The decision to put sabbaticals on hold af- too. And I look forward to seeing their sabbaticals fected the pace of progress for many instructors approved as well.” who have requested approval for several semesters.

Music instructor Mike Dana was among the l TWITTER.COM/PATH_OF_LOTUS

Dean’s Medallions chosen

BY PATRICK FORREST

pforrest@therampageonline.com

Dean’s medaillion winners for spring 2013 from left to right: Jesus Bravo, Stephanie J. Sagherian, Paulino Cruz, Guadalupe Remigio, Denali Knudson, Sarah Ringer, Crystal K. Wilkins, Julian L. Srey.

Photo Credit/Randy Priester

Practice

l CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the offseason. It also meant that colleges sought ways to sidestep the rule.

“Some colleges would make all kinds of classes so they can legally meet with their team,” said Susan Yates, athletic director at FCC. “Some would meet so much, students couldn’t possibly have enough time to study while taking the units they need in their other courses. And the students would end up with a lot of [physical education] units that they don’t need.”

Under the present rule, reduction of summer classes at some schools also meant that coaches are unable to meet with athletes during the summer, creating a “disparity in a student athlete’s opportunity to participate in these needed activities because they

The highest honor that can be given to a Fresno City College graduate is the Dean’s Medallion of Excellence Award.

This year, eight students representing seven academic divisions and student services will receive this award which commemorates students whose academic success and community service have brought honor to the college. “[The deans of] each of our academic divisions and student services ... all pick a

are solely dependent upon an institution’s ability to offer these classes,” according to the legislation.

Under the new legislation, inequities will be erased. Teams can meet with their coaches outside of the confines of a class, but they cannot exceed the maximum number of hours allowed.

The legislation further states that classes designed as offseason conditioning or skill development for intercollegiate athletics, which are conducted outside of the normal season of competition, must be credit courses and the class must be listed in the current college catalog. Additionally, no intercollegiate competition is allowed, including field trips.

The athletic activities that count towards the hours permitted include meetings and instruction with more than one student athlete which is supervised by any employee or representative of the college. Other countable athletically related activities also include field or floor activities, chalk talks, lectures, demonstrations and showing of game training films.

Administrative activities such as compliance meetings and academic meetings including but

medallion winner from their division,” said Kathy Bonilla, the college’s public information officer.

Recipients of the Dean’s Medallion are not only honored with a title, but are also awarded a scholarship.

“Each of the students will receive a medallion and a $500 scholarship,” Bonilla said.

A reception for the Dean’s Medallion Award recipients will take place on Thursday, May 9 at 5:30 p.m. in the Old Administration Building, Room 251. l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8

not limited to study halls and tutorials are not considered as countable athletically related activities.

Yates says the new legislation will bring more work for coaches as they have to monitor their hours more, but that it will work out in the end.

“You’re measuring each athlete, each sport, each year,” said Yates. “But the whole basis is to make sure we are educating and bringing the best of the athletes with the best academics.”

As with all legislation in the CCCAA, this new rule went through the constitution committee, the policy committee and the competition committee before it was approved on March 28. The process took about a year and a half.

Tessler says the policy is not a problem because it’s in the best interest of the student athletes and eliminates the need for some coaches to cheat by going over the allowed hours.

“The desire to cheat is much greater at the Division I level because of the outside pressure to win,” Tessler said. “As coaches, we have to remember these are students first.” l TWITTER.COM/THERAMPAGEGUY

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05.08.2013 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

SUMMER INTERNSHIPS: APPLY EARLY

BY HEATHER JAMIESON-BROWN

hjamieson-brown@therampageonline.com

Now that the semester is almost over, many students are considering using the summer to get work experience that will look good on their resume. A good way to get that experience is through internships.

An internship is a program in which students can work for a company as a paid or as an unpaid employee. Students in this program also receive college credits.

To take advantage of the internship program, students must be enrolled in the work experience class in order to be put in a work experience job and get college credit.

Summer internships usually have deadlines within which to apply so students need to start looking into programs early, such as the end of fall or early spring.

One of the biggest programs that works through Fresno City College, says Cindy Dunn, coordinator in the Career and Employment Center at FCC, is the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. Anyone can get involved in this program, not just Hispanic students.

“So, if somebody is majoring in politics or health sciences, and they get accepted into the program,” Dunn said, “they’re actually f lown to Washington, D.C. for an orientation and then wherever the internship is.”

HACU’s internships are throughout the United States with federal organizations and major corporations.

Interns through HACU are paid and out-ofpocket expenses such as travel, housing and living expenses are reimbursed. HACU will also help the interns find reasonably priced housing accommodations.

“The students actually come home with money in their pocket, if they’re not just out there spending it all,” Dunn said.

HACU will place interns out of state as well as locally. Many Fresno students, Dunn said, prefer to

stay in Fresno.

The Small Business Association in Fresno is currently hiring 10 interns for the summer. They are unpaid positions in which students would be shuff ling papers, filing and organizing.

“They just need some bodies to help them with some of their work,” said Dunn. “It’s short-term and just for the summer, but it’s going to be a great experience working with the SBA. It’s a federal agency so to put that on your resume, that’s a plus all by itself, even if all you did was shuffle papers.”

The basic skills an intern will learn in a job such as those offered by the SBA are very important to any employment a student may seek in the future.

“Students really need to get those transferable skills, such as filing, typing [and] using a computer ... something that in any business, the business [needs] from anyone,” said Dunn.

Another reason working in an internship is beneficial is that most interns get hired if the employer likes his or her work. And even if an intern is not hired, the contacts they would make in the company can also prove to be greatly beneficial later in their careers.

Dunn encourages students to look into internships early in the school year Cindy Dunn talking about summer internships in the Central as there is a process involved in securing Valley that are readily available for students attending Fresno the internship position. Documents need City College in the employment services office, Friday, May 3, to be filed and there is always a deadline. 2013. Photo/Michael Monroy Make sure to know when the deadlines are.

Dunn added, however, that it is important to “If you’re interested and you’re available to be realistic. If you’re going to take an internship go and do an internship out of state, it’s a great out of state, make sure to know how your housexperience,” said Dunn. “I think it’s really important ing, transportation and food costs are going to be for people to expose themselves to different things covered while you’re there. in life and different locations and different kinds Students interested in the positions available of people and different experiences while they’re at the SBA need only to contact them and apply young. That’s a good time to do it.” immediately.

l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

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05.08.2013 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

‘May the fourth be with you’

2nd annual Star Wars Pub Crawl draws hundreds of force faithful to the Tower District

Bottom: Ryan Lawrence dressed as Darth Maul, Jocelyn Ward dressed as Queen Padmé Amidala during her area fight, and Matt Gonzales dressed as a Jawa for the 2nd annual Star Wars Pub Crawl in the Tower District on Saturday, May 4.

Top Left: Left to right: Ryan Kelly dressed as Han Solo, Shawn Hasson dressed as Hoth Soldier, Matt Gonzales dressed as a Jawa, Graham Statham dressed as Darth Vader, Kelly Statham dressed as Princess Leia and Ryan Lawrence dressed as Darth Maul for the 2nd annual Star Wars Pub Crawl.

Top Center: Zoombie Nation dressed as an Ewok for the 2nd annual Star Wars Pub Crawl in the Tower District.

Top Right: Kim Callaghan dressed as Princess Leia and Lukas Joboian dressed as Obi-Wan Kenobi for the 2nd annual Star Wars Pub Crawl in the Tower District. Photos/Karen West l TWITTER.COM/KWSFOTOS

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DANIEL CHACON READS ‘HOTEL JUAREZ’

Daniel Chacon reading poetry from his book, “Hotel Juarez” at Fresno City College in the Old Administration Building Room 251, Wednesday, May 1.

Photo/Michael Monroy

BY KAITLIN REGAN

kregan@therampageonline.com

Celebrated local poet Daniel Chacon thrilled the Fresno City College audience who attended his reading from “Hotel Juarez” on May 1 in Room 251 of the Old Administration Building. Though Chacon is currently an instructor at the University of Texas at El Paso, he came back to Fresno to read stories that were inspired by

or set in Fresno.

Opening for Chacon was Michael Medrano, instructor of English. Medrano read two selections from his iPhone. He explained that he did not know he would performing that evening.

From his first selection, “The Man Who Hated Endings,” Medrano read a section that described a man who never finished whatever he read

because “he lusted for the fever of the read.”

“The moral of the story,” Medrano said of his work, “is to finish what you read.”

The other work that Medrano read was “I Am the Substitute Teacher.”

After Medrano’s reading, FCC English instructor Kenneth Chacon introduced his brother.

Kenneth chose two different introductions. The first introduction was the standard introduction of who the reader was, the awards he had won and all of his accomplishments thus far. The second introduction was more heartfelt and revealed the bond the two brothers shared.

“I think my brother is a genius,” said Ken Chacon. “I think he is an artist in the truest sense of the word.”

Then, he brought his brother Daniel up to read. In a discussion before he started, Daniel Chacon discussed his way of life and how his work inf luences the motion of his daily actions.

“I strive to live a life that is nonfragmented,” Chacon said. “I strive to live my life the way I live my art.”

Daniel Chacon also discussed the cover photo on his book, “Hotel Juarez.” In the photo, there is the hotel in Juarez, but he makes note of the sandbags at the forefront of the picture. He explained to his audience that behind those sandbags was a sol-

dier with a gun whose only job was to watch the streets throughout the day. “ You think Fresno is bad,” Chacon said. “In Juarez, even the police are afraid.”

In his selected readings, Chacon’s voice f lowed melodically over the words and the paragraphs of each page. From a selection called “Bird,” he read a line that seemed to echo his opinion of books. “‘Sometimes a book can find you, seek you out,’” read Chacon.

From the same selection and through a female character, Chacon says, “every paragraph is like a room or hallway in the same house.”

This section was particularly interesting because the female character was reading different passages from different books at the same time. She marveled at the way each paragraph from each book seemed to be a continuation from the last.

Chacon echoes his characters’ marvel to his audience, stating that like most events in life, a lot of his stories are connected in some way or another. It is, according to Chacon, in the multiverse of writing that this happens. The true marvel is not in the stories flowing smoothly together but the fact that due to this multiverse possibility, any story is true somewhere.

Chacon said, “Any story we create really does exist somewhere.” l TWITTER.COM/K_C_REGAN

Visual merchandising art displays Students put their skills to the test in Riverpark

BY HEATHER JAMIESON-BROWN

hjamieson-brown@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College visual merchandising students got the opportunity to put their skills to task by designing and installing window displays at six of Fresno’s trendiest boutiques.

Pam Hutton, instructor of FCC’s visual merchandising class, contacted Riverpark Shopping Center and struck a unique partnership with them to allow her students to perform their final project at stores.

“In visual merchandising, you learn how to display your merchandise so that it compels people to buy,” said Hutton. “You’ve done your advertising and people hear about your store, but they are beckoned to come in when they see something interesting in the window.”

Students Joyce Rosenthal, 22, Brenda Rodriguez, 19 and Mayra Avelar, 23, designed and installed the Mother’s Day inspired display at the Khloe California boutique.

“We wanted to make it floral and use the hearts to show a little love for mom,” said Rosenthal, a fashion merchandising major. “[We wanted to ] kind of grab attention with a different concept.”

Rosenthal’s team dressed a mannequin in floral skirt and top and, in place of the mannequin’s head, is a large, lovely spring bouquet. In the next window hangs a poster depicting a woman with her hands together shaped into a heart.

“We’re really happy with our work,” said Rodriguez, who is undecided on her major.

The goals of this project are to provide visual merchandising students the opportunity to put new concepts using design principles to use while gaining practical experience, as well as preparing the students for career advancement in the retail community.

Hutton says she is very thankful that the shop-

ping center agreed to the union.

“We’re actually surprised they were so willing to help us out,” she says. “Because they take a risk that students don’t do a good job; they take a risk that something will break.”

Fashion merchandising ma jor Gabriel Pacheco, 22, helped design the display at Ooh La La with his team and they ran into several difficulties.

The Ooh La La window is darkly tinted and they had to work around a strucFresno City College students team up with Ohh La La in Riverpark to create winture that was already dow displays as the final project of their visual merchandising course. present that the store Photo/Taylor Rodriguez manager did not want taken down. The structure is a black chevron design than just in the classroom is really important to descending from the ceiling. their education,” she said.

Through teamwork, cooperation and brainThis will not be the last semester the visual storming, the team was able to pull off their window merchandising class will get to participate in this display. project, as Dawson says the project is “definitely “It was more my team members [Brooke Baker something we’ll be interested in [continuing].” and Adolfo Lemus] who were able to come up with These window displays can be seen in person the ideas,” says Pacheco. “I give them credit.” until May 7 at Riverpark’s Kwirkworld, Eleganza, Ooh The response to this project has been positive. La La, Stella Laguna Beach, Khloe California and The Samantha Dawson, general manager of two of Ivy. If you miss them at the mall, there are photos the stores, is enthusiastic about the project. posted at www.facebook.com/shopriverpark.

“I think giving kids the opportunity to learn and really experience it in the real world, rather l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

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Spacehooker redefines local music

Performer Spacehooker performs at the Aperine Arts Festival at the Babylon club in the Tower District on Saturday, April 27. Photo Credit/Abel Cortez

BY MATTHEW ELLIOTT

melliott@therampageonline.com

Simply put, there are few musicians in Fresno that parallel the skill and mastery of their instrument as demonstrated by bassist Narino Mongelli, more commonly known as Spacehooker.

As a performer that pairs electronic mixes with scorching bass riffs and gritty vocals, Spacehooker offers a one of a kind experience for local music fans.

Spacehooker’s unique sound, loosely labeled as industrial funk, produces a tremendous amount of audience feedback and energy.

The master bassist’s creativity comes from several inf luential sources.

“When [my brother and I] grew up, my dad was super heavy into jazz,” said Mongelli. “I think I was blessed in always having music in the house. We’d wake up in the morning and he’d have something mellow in the background while he was cooking in the morning, you know?”

His style also derives from his brother’s developing tastes during their childhood.

“Watching my brother grow up, he was always in funk bands and kind of soulful bands, just because that’s what we grew up listing to,” said Mongelli. “And then he kind of ventured out and started showing me these tapes of like Sabbath. He sent me a couple of Sabbith albums when I was young, and it f---ed me up in a good way.”

He continued to develop his breadth of skills fresh out of high school when he twice toured Europe.

“That was with a band from here called ‘Mindbender,’” said Mongelli, who describes the band as a melding of Alice in Chains and Primus. “We’d do it during summer. Every time we went there, we had the time of our lives, man. The band was pretty decent, too. We went over really well.”

With more relaxed laws, touring in areas including the Czech Republic, France and Germany was preferable to the restrictions of performing at local venues.

“I was young. We’d be playing bars around here and I’d have to sit outside and wait until we were on and go inside, play it, and then I’d have to

split right after.”

Moncelli founded Spacehooker and released his first album, “Deth Funk” in 2010. The project was based on a culmination of his tastes, his experiences and provides him with an outlet to share some of his unpublished musical ideas.

“It’s just a melding pot of a lot of the s--t I listen to, you know?” said the 40 year old. “As far as Spacehooker goes, I think I had a lot of insight to start this thing because in the most recent band that I was in, I had tons of ideas. But toward the end, we just really weren’t hitting with each other.

I had all that s--t recorded somewhere, and figured that eventually, I’d use it.”

On Saturday, April 27, Spacehooker performed at the Babylon for the CD release party of his second album, “The Bionic Demo.” The powerful and fast paced album demonstrates the strength of his electronic compositions in addition to his incredible skill on bass guitar.

Although Spacehooker’s latest music is currently only available for purchase at his live performances, concert bootlegs are available on YouTube that showcase his incredible talent.

“I’m going to start working on a little video thing for one of the songs,” said Morcelli. “As soon as I get that done, I’ll start getting the music out there and start sending the CD everywhere. I definitely want to get it out there.”

The next opportunity to catch Spacehooker live is at Crazy J’s in Tulare on Saturday, June 8. A local Starline performance is tentatively scheduled for sometime in late June as well.

For more information and updates, search for “Spacehooker” on Facebook. l TWITTER.COM/PATH_OF_LOTUS

Six-String Showcase presents diversity

BY JORDAN RUSSELL jrussell@therampageonline.com

BY AUGUST PROMNITZ

dpromnitz@therampageonline.com

The Fresno City College music department held its “Six-String Showcase” in the Old Administration Building Auditorium on May 2.

Featuring guest artists the New West Guitar Group, the event showcased the progress of FCC guitar students.

In order to highlight the skills of students in beginning through advanced classes, instructors Kevin Cooper, David Schramm and Steve Nance guided students in learning group ensambles and solo pieces.

The set of songs performed was diverse and well-rounded. Students and guest artists played everything from acoustic covers of classic rock to traditional Zulu compositions.

The work of Manuel Ponce, Federico Moreno-Torroba, Bryan Johanson and Steely Dan was included in the program. In addition, FCC music instructor Mike Dana’s composition, “And in Time, October,” premiered at the event.

The performance also showcased original compositions by FCC guitar students.

Micah Byers, whose piece “Tailor” was performed by the Intermediate/Advanced guitar class, was able to gain firsthand experience composing for a large ensemble.

“It’s tricky, because you’re dealing with a class ... there’s different levels, so when writing for a group like that you have to make sure that it’s accessible to everyone you’re writing for.”

The sound of the showcase was enriched by additional instrumentation including percussion, electric bass and the use of both steel- and nylonstringed guitars.

“It was cool to hear [my piece] on live instruments instead of computer sounds, and it was really exciting to see the support from the music faculty and the school and the reaction from the crowd,” said Byers.

The performance was planned and prepared well in advance and provided students with an exciting opportunity to share their abilities with a large audience.

“We’ve been preparing for this a little bit over two months, now,” said John Loera, one of the participants in the concert.

Each class rehearsed its own pieces individually. However, the showcase also brought all guitarists together to perform as one massive ensemble.

“We had a total of one full rehearsal with everybody there and two other extra credit rehearsals,” said Byers.

Even with a limited amount of time to collaborate as a single group, FCC’s guitar students were able to work together to create a unique and

Student guitarist Micah Byers performs at the SixString Showcase on May 2 in Fresno City College’s Old Administration Building Auditorium.

Photo/Darlene Wendels diverse evening of song.

“It’s amazing what we can do with literally three hours,” said Byers, “how we just came together to create that sound and such a solid performance.” l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 05.08.2013

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ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT RETURNS Award-winning series revived by Netflix with the original cast

BY COLBY TIBBET

ctibbet@therampageonline.com

The critically acclaimed, Emmy-winning comedy series “Arrested Development” will air its fourth season after a seven year hiatus on May 26. The show will return as an original series on the video streaming service Netflix.

Despite critics’ praise and numerous accolades, including five Emmys in its first year, Fox cancelled the show in 2005 due to its low ratings.

Since its cancellation, the show has garnered a cult following through strong DVD sales. Its presence on video streaming services, such as Netf lix and Amazon Instant Video, has made it one of the most celebrated shows on the web.

The appeal of “Arrested Development” stems from its eccentric characters, irreverent humor, distinct reference and callbacks to jokes from previous episodes and unique take on situational comedy.

Most importantly it gives its audience some credit with smart, interloping jokes that most will miss on the first or second viewing.

The show follows the aff luent Bluth family and their “riches to rags” story. The main character, Michael Bluth (Jason Bateman), attempts to keep the family’s real estate company intact, while dealing with his dysfunctional family members.

His father is in prison for potentially building track homes in Iraq. His older brother (Will Arnett) is a failing magician and segway driver. His materialistic sister (Portia de Rossi) is married to a sexually ambiguous wannabe actor (David Cross), and his son, George Michael (Michael Cera) is a timid, awkward teenager who happens to be love with his own cousin.

These characters are all outrageous and hilarious, yet also manage to feel real, extrapolating the eccentric people we all know in our own lives.

The new season is intended to show viewers what each character has been doing since the third season, and catch up to the eventual movie that is planned to follow after the season. `As creator of the show Mitchell Hurwitz said in an interview last year on the entertainment websites vulture. com, that the fourth season episodes “function as an act one of a movie that we all want to do.”

Hur witz added that the fourth season will “take the audience through the experiences of the characters since the family ‘fell apart’ and how they’re brought together to deal with their new problems.”

This new season also sets a new precedent in television, where entertainment is not dictated by executive Graphic/Adan De la Cerda expectations or ratings. The revival of “Arrested opment” and its continuous references in social Development” has sparked an idea that new venues gatherings, television and the Internet is the reason of receiving entertainment can make it more demo- why the new season exists. Given the continuing cratic, where viewers can determine the outcome popularity of the show, the Bluth family would say of their favorite shows, and if you are loud enough, that FOX has “made a huge mistake.” you will eventually be heard.

The immense popularity of “Arrested Devell TWITTER.COM/ROBOTMILK

Top 10 summer blockbusters

BY PATRICK FORREST

pforrest@therampageonline.com

The 2013 summer movie season is finally here. Starting with “Iron Man

Graphic/Adan De la Cerda

3” this year has a number of films coming that are highly anticipated and should bring in huge numbers in the box office.

1. “Man of Steel”: Perhaps the most anticipated movie of this summer, it will more than likely be the box office hit of the year. Henry Cavill stars as Clark Kent in this origin story of one of the world’s most popular superheroes. June 14 2. “The Wolverine”: Hugh Jackman is back to play the classic character. In this story he takes a trip to Japan where he encounters some enemies from his past who ultimately change his future. July 26 3. “Star Trek Into Darkness”: Captain Kirk, once again played by Chris Pine, is back to lead the crew into battle against Khan. J.J. Abrams directs this sci-fi sequel which should turn out to be one of the best of the summer. May 17 4. “The Great Gatsby”: Leonardo DiCaprio attempts to bring this American classic to life in what is sure to be a great compliment to an excellent group of movies. May 10 5. “The Purge”: In a near perfect future America with low unemployment and low crime, one day a year everyone gets to let those pent up feelings out of their system.

One family lets a man into their home and must try to

live through the night as a mob tries to break in to get him. June 7 6. “Pacific Rim”: After an alien attack threatens life on earth, humans need to respond. So they create giant robots to fight for them, in what should be a beautiful sci-fi actionpacked box office smash. July 12 7. “Kick-Ass 2”: After the success of “Kick-Ass” in 2010, Dave Lizewski is back with his sidekick Hit-Girl to bring this quirky action comedy back to the big screen. Aug 16 8. “The Hangover Part III”: The wolfpack is back, and are once again they are loose in Las Vegas. After the classic comedy that was “The Hangover,” and the classic letdown that was “The Hangover Part II,” the third installment looks to have the potential to be the big comedy of the season.

May 24 9. “World War Z”: Based on Max Brooks’ novel of the same name, “World War Z” stars Brad Pitt as United Nations employee Gerry Lane, who must travel the world to stop a zombie pandemic. June 21 10. “After Earth”: One thousand years after some cataclysmic event made the entire human race leave the planet, Will and Jaden Smith star in M. Night Shyamalan’s latest attempt at relevance. May 31 l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8

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OPINION

Campus Voices “What are your plans for acing your finals?”

Caesar Padua Nursing “[Take advantage of] the Ram Slam they provided for us, to get some silence instead of being at home with all the noise, and take my notes and study.”

Matthew Duarte Video Game Design “Not only studying, study at a rate where I’m not overloading myself or under loading.”

Alyssia Montes Art “Study the right material, form study groups, that know the same study material. Go find a tutor whenever it’s necessary.”

Kaylup Johnson Computer Science “A good breakfast, and good night sleep.”

WRITTEN BY ALYCE DIAZ PHOTOS BY KEVYNN GOMEZ

05.08.2013 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

FINALS: TIPS TO FINISH STRONG

BY RAMPAGE EDITORIAL BOARD editorial@therampageonline.com

It’s almost f inals week, and Fresno City College students, like their counterparts throughout the nation, are focused on completing their classes successfully. Everyone wants to end strong, and ace their finals. Who doesn’t?

Unfortunately, in the pursuit of this goal, students do not always make the wisest decisions and end up complicating things.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

We, as students, can take our lives in our hands and shape our own successes.

The good news is that we have access to resources on and off campus that can make a big difference in how successful we are. Yes, the degree of your success depends on how hard you have worked up to this point as well as how hard you are willing to work for your final exams. It is within your reach if you take advantage of all available resources in order fully to achieve your goals.

Take advantage of Ram Slam: Extended library hours and tutoring that is sponsored by the Associate Student Government. Ram Slam offers tutors for all writing assignments and math. The computer lab will be open and quiet study rooms will be available.

If you can benefit from a quiet study environment or free tutoring, Ram Slam is a must for you.

While it is mostly finals “cram” session, it will still help you focus on what you need to for this last week.

Don’t do it alone: So you are the type of student that believes in doing it all alone?

While self-preparing is always a great option for some students, for many others it isn’t.

Form or join study groups with classmates; know what everyone else knows. Run your answers by members of your group and pick up a few tips

from others. Get together to create outlines, f lash cards or just to quiz each other.

Practice makes perfect: Practice tests, like tutoring, can point out deficiencies in a student’s knowledge bank and expose what needs to be worked on.

These issues may be in test-taking or the way the student studies.

In any case, practice tests are a good place to start. By identifying your

weaknesses, you can adjust your study habits accordingly.

Practice tests will also help students identify what kind of learner you are. Do you learn by writing, listening or doing? I dentifying your learning style will lead you to study habits that fit your style.This will reinforce material that you are learning and create a place in the brain for the information to stay.

Your professors are your friends: You should also seek out your

professors to clear up any confusion about the material before the exam.

Who would explain better the material than the person teaching the class and grading the test?

Going to your professor gives you an opportunity to clarify whatever it is about the material that is proving to be difficult.

Figure out what works for you: What is your learning style? You are less likely to retain what you’re studying if you’re using a method that is not suitable for you.

Have you considered making learning fun? For instance, using acronyms to remember formulas and definitions such as PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction) or IMPAT (Interphase, Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase).

Beethoven anyone?

Music is another popular study technique, but few students understand what kind music should be used when studying. According to a study by the Stanford School of Medicine in 2007, listening to classical music is a way to get the brain to pay attention.

The author of the study, Mitzi Baker, explained that the brain has its own ways of processing information and separating information “into meaningful chunks by extracting information about beginnings, endings and the boundaries between events.”

This could explain why students find studying with music helpful. Try it. You have nothing to lose.

Rest up: The weekend before finals is not the best time to party all weekend long.

Rest your body and your mind and be refreshed for the week that could determine the rest of your life. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 05.08.2013

PRO

BY PATRICK FORREST

pforrest@therampageonline.com

There is a proper way to spend summer vacation, but it is not a universal thing. Some of us will get a summer job, some will take summer classes, some will go off and volunteer, some will go out of town and some won’t leave their room.

Work is fine, but we do that all of the time. The chance to just sit back and relax doesn’t come around too often, and we need to take advantage of it while we still can.

There is a big difference between working hard and working smart. Anyone one can work hard; it doesn’t require a plan or even a goal. All that it really does require is an Energizer Bunny-like motor and something to do. But we should not have to work all the time. Even the hardest of workers requires a break.

Working smart on the other hand is much more difficult. To work smart you must have a goal and a simple, direct and efficient plan to acquire that goal whatever it may be. You must work to reach that goal as fast as possible. And once you do, then you can stop. Smart workers always leave themselves time to relax. The both of these can be used in the life of the student, but wouldn’t you much rather get your work done and stop.

Summer is coming up fast and you need to be sure that you are not only excited for it, but prepared for it. Summer gives us the opportunity for a lot of down time and it should be used and used properly.

Down time is not something that should be given up, it should be cherished. That means that we need to take time to do what we love. Use the off time during the summer to make yourself happy. After all of the stress that comes with an entire year of school, we deserve it.

Students have a lot on their plate, and we deserve to take a break.

We have been in classrooms since August. We have a break for a simple reason, if we aren’t given that break we will keel over due to stress. Chronic stress can lead to health problems, physical and mental. These health issues if gone unaddressed can have serious effects.

We have to end the attitude that if you are always working and running at 110 percent capacity then you are somehow lazy. We are only

OPINION

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Should you use summer break for relaxation?

human, and need to take a break. We often think of resting as wasting time.

The only way that you are improving yourself is by working. These are both ideas that are false and need to stop.

It is known that being overwhelmed or overworked can lead to stress, and it is also known that stress is destructive to our bodies both emotionally and physically.

The point of college should be to take classes to prepare you to do something that you will love. The simple fact of being in school for this amount of time is an act of self improvement.

Getting a summer job to grab a some bucks is a great idea, but you should never be putting too much on your plate.

College is an incredibly stressful time, the pressure to do well, the new amount of school work which is completely different than previously experienced, being accepted into a new social circle and possibly throwing a job on top of it. Stress can kill you, and if we as college students don’t take time to for some rest, relaxation, fun and maybe even a vacation, then it will.

Take a trip, have some fun and make a few memories. We’ve earned them. This is the time that is to be

used to celebrate all of the time that was spent working our fingers to the bone. Writing, adding, building and learning.

I’m not saying that summer jobs, volunteering and summer classes are bad ideas.A lot of people might need any number of those things. But it is always best to make sure that these things are done only if you want to and not because you feel that you have to.

Time is an incredibly valuable thing and it is true that it should not be wasted, but stopping, resting and doing nothing for a bit is not wasting time it is a very important thing that should be scheduled out for everyone.

No matter what you do this summer, be sure to enjoy it. There are not a lot of opportunities in life to truly sit back and do what you love for an extended period of time.

We are incredibly privileged to have the opportunity to take 3 months off. You can’t do those kind of things at a job, so be sure to take advantage of it while you still can. l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8

CON

BY KEVYNN GOMEZ

kgomez@therampageonline.com

While the school semester can feel overwhelming for any hardworking college student, that does not give any reason to use the summer vacation period as an excuse to be lazy or spoiled. Fresno City College students not attending summer school have a little more than three months to spend their time as they choose, so why not do something productive?

The summer break should be used as an opportunity to achieve many goals, such as getting a job,

volunteering with organizations, interning or job shadowing with companies, helping one’s family or spending time planning for a future career.

The U.S. is the most privileged nation in the world, and while there may be many socioeconomic problems still plaguing our country, all students can take advantage of the multitude of opportunities set before them.

What right do we, Americans, have to complain about tiring school schedules when we receive more than adequate financial aid, ease of transportation to and from school and free access to technology?

There are several computer labs, workshops and a library filled with thousands of resources available to students during the summer session.

Several consecutive months of studying, reading, taking tests and waking up early can be exhausting, but what do students expect? We are all young adults facing unsure futures in a changing world where

having a work ethic is necessary.

Finding a job, a volunteer organization, or other opportunities to keep oneself busy does not have to be boring and dreaded. Even with a job, students can still find time for fun in the sun and personal goals to accomplish by prioritizing and being responsible.

Many creative options exist for those looking to combine a hobby with a job. Students who love to spend time outdoors will find mutual benefits from a job at the Island Waterpark, Wild Water Adventure Park, or even Blackbeard’s.

Students looking into careers in biology, animal sciences or the veterinary field may find volunteering with the Chaffee Zoo for a summer both memorable and attractive when printed on their resume.

Even a job with McDonald’s, Urban Outfitters or any other retail business will provide a young student with experience in leadership and business skills.

Although a summer devoted to flipping burgers at Wendy’s may not sound as glamorous as one spent lounging by the pool pampering yourself, it can be the deciding factor between you and your future competitors once you graduate college.

Not only does a summer spent working or volunteering pay off in terms of a potential career years down the road, it also establishes a strong work ethic and understanding of adult responsibilities.

Those paychecks you earn over the summer can also easily become a blessing in future emergencies, act as a buffer for the months you do not have to work, or contribute to rent, groceries or any other necessities your family may struggle to cover on their own.

For students not as privileged as others, a laid-back summer vacation is an unlikely reality. Many students have no choice but to work or go to summer school to take advantage of the opportunity to increase their finances or speed through their education. This underscores the privilege those not under these circumstances should see not to take for granted.

We are privileged to live in a country that grants plenty of opportunities for financial, educational and personal mobility to its citizens, even when those opportunities are more challenging to come by. As college students given the gift of education, we should take advantage of our relatively easy existence in comparison to others and instill life-long skills and talents within ourselves that can be powerful tools in future upward mobility for ourselves and our families.

The looming inevitability of summer jobs, volunteer work or time productively spent reading, exercising or helping family and friends does not have to be a burden. In fact, students should embrace the opportunity to try new things and explore their interests amid the sunny days of summer.

l TWITTER.COM/ FCCRAMPAGE

14

OPINION

05.08.2013 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

SEXPLORATION WITH TROY AND MATTHEW “How much sex is too much sex?”

THE GAY PERSPECTIVE

BY TROY POPE

tpope@therampageonline.com

Are you in a relationship, or are you painting the night?

If you are in a loving relationship, have sex as often as you two can stand. Anytime the moment hits, take it.

If both of you have raging hormones, there is no need to cage them.

However, nothing can be more exhilarating than building tension by holding off for a little while. When you finally release, do it like bunny rabbits.

As long as you and your man are into it, bone down as many times as you possibly can.

When you are not in a relationship, this is when you have to really ask yourself how much is too much.

Guys, we’ve all been there. The relationship with the man of your dreams falls apart, and you find yourself lonely, sad, horny and desperate for human connection.

All of us have had break-upbenders. There is a time when you have to rein yourself in. If you start treating guys as an outlet you want to plug into, there is only so much of that that is healthy.

If you do this for too long you will begin to devalue real human bonds and find yourself whoring out, for free, at clubs and on gay “dating” apps.

Sleeping with all of your friends is not, and should not, be an option because you might burn all of your bridges.

Conversely “stranger sex” has the added negative of exposing you to STDs. I have at least three friends that

have HIV. They regret a lot of their promiscuity, don’t end up regretting yours.

It’s harder to find love when you carry the emotional baggage that comes with being a tramp, and even more baggage that comes with an incurable, communicable disease.

Treat yourself and others with respect.

If you’re going to town on random dudes’ bodies, you belittle the importance of romance a n d l o ve because y o u ’ v e chosen to put it as a secondary concern.

Tops, y o u s h o u l d n’ t s l e e p around so much that your junk hurts; bottoms, you should take it easy on occasion to preserve your body for the long haul.

Your future husband should know you by your sexual reputation.

When it comes to finding a guy you can fall in love with, the last thing most guys want to hear is how slutty you were. l TWITTER.COM/DARKTROY

THE STRAIGHT PERSPECTIVE

BY MATTHEW ELLIOTT

melliott@therampageonline.com

What does too much mean? In considering the question, it’s best to separate the physical and social consequences of excessive sexual activity.

There’s nothing wrong with sex and lots of it. The male and female bodies are designed to maintain frequent sexual activity for decades.

It appears, that through s o c i a l evolution, each partner is provided with a biological incentive to keep up the good work. As s p e r m production is at a maximum, men are compelled to be sexually active.

W h i l e women are fertile, especially during the final decade of fertility, their sexual desire and physical response to sexual activity increase dramatically.

For women, excessive sex can cause the labia to become sore and adversely sensitive. Worse yet, if these symptoms are dismissed in the name of passion (or quickies), small abra-

sions and tears can form, causing stinging, hyper sensitivity and an increased susceptibility to infections, including sexually-transmitted diseases.

Consequences for men having too much are similar. Penis heads and shafts can become painfully sensitive, blister, cut and susceptible to infections.

While plenty of sexual activity is perfectly reasonable, be sure to give the body time to heal. At some point, even if you try to dismiss the pain and soreness, your body will eventually need to heal. If you go too far, the healing process will take a longer time than for those who have found a healthy balance of frequent sex.

If cutting back in any form is not enough and you and your partner demand more action, try taking additional precautions to reduce the consequences. This can include more foreplay to increase lubrication and vaginal dilation, different positions or a change of pace.

As far as “too much sex” is concerned, it’s also important to consider social responsibilities. For example, horny couples with children shouldn’t leave them in another room 2- to 4times a day or consistently show up late to work. Doing so is selfish, indecent and disrespectful to others. Still, special occasions can be a nice distraction from the normal pace of life.

Whether excessively having sex, smoking marijuana or gambling, if your social responsibilities are adversely affected by the behavior, it is considered to be a form of addiction.

Self-restraint is a healthy way to maintain physical health and reaffirm the value of delayed gratification. l TWITTER.COM/PATH_OF_LOTUS

Christians are forgetting what the Bible says

BY AUGUST PROMNITZ

dpromnitz@therampageonline.com

In Chapter 12 of “The Gospel of Mark,” Jesus is questioned by a group of religious elders as to what God’s greatest commandment is. Without hesitation, he gives them this simple answer.

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.”

The second is this, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:30-31).

While most Christians are quick to use this verse and try to live by it.

That is, of course, until the question of gays comes into play. When this issue is brought up, leaders of faith such as Pat Robertson quickly put aside their loving nature and put on a cold and vindictive tone as he hosted the “700 Club.”

“I don’t really believe that homosexuals want to get married,” Robertson barked, “what they want to do is destroy marriage and some of the other things that we have in our society.”

Then there’s the infamous hate mongering of the vile and repugnant Phelps family of the Westboro Baptist Church. After the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard, a gay student from Wyoming, the church saw it appropriate to march on the dead young man’s funeral, carrying signs which read “Matt in hell” and “AIDS cures fags.”

The hateful bigotry of such men as Robertson and Phelps are tarnishing the teachings of the Gospel. As a Christian, I understand the issue of wanting to protect traditional marriage and why it may be a source of controversy within the Christian community. To to feel a need to preserve

marriage is one thing, but when you rope in people who want to get married and turn them into an enemy, it goes against the teachings of the Gospel.

It is at this point that Christians must ask the all-too-famous question: “What would Jesus do?” As it turns out, what he does is far from what Robertson or Phelps would expect or hope.

In Matthew 8, verses 5-13 and Luke 7, verses 1-10, Jesus is met by a Roman centurion whose servant was paralyzed and bedridden. Touched by the centurion’s sincerity and faith, he told the centurion to return home, where he would find his servant completely healed.

There’s just one problem, the word used for the “servant” in the original Koine Greek was “pais.” This is a word that translates, not to “servant”, but to lover in Greek. In other words, if we are to go by the language used, Jesus very likely healed a centurion’s lover: a gay

man.

Does this mean that Jesus gave a green light to same-sex marriage?

Not exactly, but it does show that Jesus was someone who lived up to his teachings.

He loved his neighbor as himself, regardless of race or status, or of sexual orientation.

He rewarded the centurion’s faith with compassionate love and healing.

Christianity is not an ideology of hatred or exclusion. The Gospel is a message of love and forgiveness, as well as acceptance and tolerance. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

SPORTS

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 05.08.2013

15

RAMS REMAIN BEST IN STATE

BY TOMAS KASSAHUN

tkassahun@therampageonline.com

Track and Field takes CVC title

BY KEAUNDREY CLARK

kclark@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College track and field team outran College of the Sequoias and Merced College to win the Central Valley Conference Championship. The men’s team finished with a team score of 148 and the women’s team finished with 137.

Freshman 100-meter sprinter Aaron Johnson finished fourth in the men’s 100-meter run with a time of 11.09 while Shamlyn Pinchback finished first in the women’s 100-meter run with a time of 12.27. Lee Daniels finished first in the men’s 110-meter hurdles with a time 14.97.

“I’ve accomplished a lot of my goals I set this season but it’s still not over. I’m preparing for state,” said Daniels.

Martin Rowell topped all runners in the 5000-meter run with a time of 15:34:95 and Ryan Colebrook took first in the 400-meter hurdles with a time of 53:63.

“We overcome many hurdles, injuries and various obstacles from the beginning

of the year and our men and women had a great showing at the conference championship meets,” said head coach Jesus Reyes.

Freshman Melanee Mcbath finished first in the 800-meter with a time of 2:25:43.

“This season was tough.

The training prepared me for the season and kept me focused during tough times this year,” said Mcbath.

Next up for the Rams will be the Nor-Cal championship May 4-11.

Twenty two runners will represent FCC on their way to American River to face the best runners in Northern California.

Reyes isn’t concerned of the schools the Rams will be competing against. Rather it’s the clock he looks at.

“One of our mottos is we run against the clock not our opponents,” said Reyes. “It helps bring out the best in us.” l TWITTER.COM/SLOCUM13

tured players from Australia, Italy and France.

“The kids that are international check in the rankings and we’re one of the first colleges they call. Also I’ve coached the coaches of some of them,” said Loop. “The key is to make sure they are welcome once they get here and create a bond. Anybody that has seen us practice knows that we’re close.”

Sam Bertram, a sophomore from Australia, helped the Rams clinch their second straight team championship, then went on to win the individual title.

No.1 Bertram defeated No. 7 Vitor Mendes of Ventura 4-6, 6-1, 6-0 for the title.

“I’ve been with most of these boys for two years now; the rest of them one year. Every one of us has a completely different personality than the next guy,” said Bertram. “We always have the best time together. It’s gonna be sad when we say bye.”

He adds that the team came into the season confident but humble.

“We never doubted each other but we would never say we got it under wraps,” said Bertram. “We always felt like we were the favorites but that’s something you have to prove.” l TWITTER.COM/THERAMPAGEGUY

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Sam Bertram won the singles title at the California Community College Athletics Association Men’s Tennis State Championship. Photo/Karen West

As the Fresno City College Men’s Tennis team arrived at Pierpont Racquet Club looking to defeat Ventura College for the state championship, the rain came down hard and the stage was set for a day full of twists.

The teams traveled to Ojai Valley Athletic Club, 30 minutes away from Pierpont, to continue the match. But the rain would once again follow the teams after the match had already started.

And so they moved back to Pierpont.

This time the match would continue without any further delays and the Rams would defeat the Ventura Pirates 5-1 to capture their second straight California Community College Athletics Association Men’s Tennis State Championship.

In the doubles matches, FCC’s duo of Sam Bertram and Adam DeRomas defeated Ventura’s Cameron Lee and Vitor Mendes. Scott Gray and Alessandro Moriano added another victory for the Rams as they defeated Tom Douglas and Hans Baumstark. Alec Bessinger and Joey Rivera brought the third victory in doubles with a win over Zach Pitman and Victor Dos Santos.

Scott Gray and Alec Bes-

singer brought victories for FCC in singles matches. Gray defeated Hans Baumstark, 6-2, 7-5 while Bessinger defeated Andy Dervot, 6-2, 6-3.

“Based on the score it looked easy but it was actually a lot tougher. We were playing Ventura on their home court so it made the environment good and it was hard fought,” said head coach Steve Loop.

Though the rain appeared to be an inconvenience at first, the Rams used it to their advantage.

“The rain didn’t affect us that much because the first time we didn’t really get started yet and the second time it gave us a chance to talk in the van and regroup,” said Loop.

It was the 40th straight win for the Rams, who finished the season 19-0.

Despite all the success the Rams had prior to this season, there were no signs of complacency coming into this season.

“We weren’t worried about being hungry because we were just focused on the next task. State championship was always the goal but we just took the small steps to get there,” said Loop.

Like the previous years, Loop brought together international students from multiple countries and created a strong brotherhood.

This year, the team fea-

16

SPORTS

05.08.2013 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

SOFTBALL AND BASEBALL TEAMS ADVANCE TO SUPER REGIONALS Softball

BY TOMAS KASSAHUN

tkassahun@therampageonline.com

The Fresno City College softball team overcame a rough start against San Jose City College to advance to the Super Regionals of the California Community College Athletics Association softball playoffs.

After losing the first game of the series 7-1, the Rams rallied for a 7-6 victory in game two. The Rams overcame a 5-1 deficit in game two with three runs in the top of the sixth and three runs in the top of the seventh.

The Rams completed the comeback thanks in large part to three RBIs from Kyla Cisneros and four strikeouts from pitcher Grace Combs.

In the deciding game of the series, FCC’s Courtney Rodgers hit two home runs and recorded three RBIs as the Rams blew out SJCC 10-0.

“In the second game, we got our offense going. We started hitting the ball. We got a lot of runners on base. We wore their pitchers down.

They only had two pitchers and we just stayed on them.

We drew a lot of walks and hit the ball,” said FCC head coach Rhonda Williams.

Going into the match against Shasta College on May 10, the Rams plan on doing the same.

“We have to play solid defense, hit the ball and put it all together. This is the time of year where you have to put it all together,” said Williams.

Shasta College took the Golden Valley Conference title with a conference record of 20-0. They swept Napa Valley to advance to the Super Regionals.

For the Rams, it has been a season full of accolades.

Kyla Cisneros was named the Central Valley Conference player of the Year and Grace Combs was named the CVC pitcher of the year while Williams was named the CVC coach of the year.

Courtney Rodgers, Rainie Thiessen, Adriana Bencomo and Dana Moritz were named to the Central Valley AllConference First team while Whitney Byrom and Sabrena Osborn were named to the All-Conference Second team.

Jenna Arkelian and Kassie Sierras received honorable mentions.

l TWITTER.COM/THERAMPAGEGUY

Baseball

BY PABEL LOPEZ

plopez@therampageonline.com

The Fresno City College baseball team will take on Feather River in the Super Regional round of the Nor-Cal playoffs.

The Rams swept their playoff series on May 3-4 against Laney College from Oakland. The Rams defeated the Eagles 7-5 on Friday and came back to crush the Eagles 12-1 in game two on Saturday.

“We played well. Laney was much better than we expected hitting-wise,” FCC head coach Ron Scott said. “In the second game we just erupted and our team can do that offensively.”

First baseman Ryne Dean hit a home run in the bottom of the second inning that started a four-runscoring-f lurry by the Rams in game one. Dean followed it up in the second game by batting 4-for-4 while scoring two runs and two RBIs. “There was a little bit of a struggle at the end of the game on Friday,” said Dean.

“We let a couple runs in the ninth but overall, we’re playing really well. We’re hitting the crap out of the ball.”

Pitcher Dominic Topooimproved his record to 6-2.

Photo by Taylor Rodriguez. Second baseman Anders Nelson assists the Rams in the win against Laney on May 4.

Topoozian added eight strikeouts to his CVC leading 84 strikeouts in the winning effort but hit three batters.

The Rams now face

Feather River, who came into the postseason with a 17-5 record in the Golden Valley Conference. l TWITTER.COM/PABELLOPEZ