Fall 2012 Issue 7

AMPAGE Volume CXXIII Issue 7

FREE

November 28, 2012

The Student-Run Newspaper of Fresno City College

CHAMPIONSHIP BOUND

ASG appoints executive board

BY TROY POPE

tpope@therampageonline.com

Photo by Paul Schlesinger. The Fresno City College Rams women’s volleyball team moves onto the CCCAA state championships after defeating Sierra College 25-22, 17-25, 11-25, 26-24 and 15-13 last night. The championships take place from Dec. 1 to 2 at Fullerton College in Fullerton, Calif. l SEE VOLLEYBALL ON PAGE 16

Crime rate on campus rises

BY MATTHEW ELLIOTT

melliott@therampageonline.com

For a period of several weeks, the Fresno City College campus has experienced a spike in robberies, break-ins and thefts.

Throughout the entire year of 2011, there were 44 campus police reports related to vehicle thefts, burglaries or robberies. In 2010, crime data revealed a total of 24 reported incidents.

During the past 35 days alone, campus police have filed 31 reports in response to burglar alarms, vandalism, robberies, break-ins and thefts.

Among the more serious cases, the Fresno Bee reported that around 9 p.m. on Nov. 19, a female student was accosted in the school parking lot by two Bulldog gang members. After obtaining her cell phone and threatening her, they promptly took her keys and sped away in her 1999 Toyota Corolla. Early the following morning, the 24-year-old and 25-year-old men were arrested and booked in county jail.

On Nov. 14 and Nov. 15, campus police officers filed reports on ten crimes: five petty thefts, three burglaries including two involving automobiles and two acts of vandalism, also known as “malicious mischief.”

Personal property including stolen and vandalized vehicles, the contents of vehicles, bicycles, the contents of backpacks and the personal belongings of various instructors were all subject to the recent spike in criminal activity.

In what appears to be a coordinated effort to burglarize several FCC instructors, thieves used the same technique to scope out and break into two instructor offices as well as the gym. Someone spray painted the doorways with a red stripe and would return later in the night to smash windows and steal valuables.

Victims include Shana Munoz, English department chair and Dr. Bernard Navarro, Native American studies professor and sociology department chair.

Dr. Navarro’s office was broken into twice in as many days.

“They hit one window the first night and my other window last night,” the instructor said.

During their first run, burglars stole several of the Navarro’s sentimental indigenous objects including a 60-year-old jar.

The following night, thieves returned to steal his personal computer that contained more than 10 years of his work.

“I had some spiritual stuff

in (the office). They left that behind, thank God,” said Navarro.

“I’m taking all that stuff home.

Anything of value is gone.”

The campus police department has only 15 sworn peace officers to protect a campus of more than 30,000 enrolled students. The patrol grounds also include Ratcliff Stadium and Euless Park. There are too few night patrolmen to adequately protect the entire premises; nor are there enough cameras to effectively hold individuals accountable for their crimes.

Many outdoor lights are turned off throughout campus at night. Most of the locations affected by this recent crime spree were located these low or no light areas.

“I talked to the evening sergeant. I told him it’s just pitch blackness. If anybody goes snooping around, they’re not going to be identified; they’re not going to be detected. Sure enough, they came back,” said Navarro. “They need to get people on campus out of here that don’t belong here.”

Student bicyclists are suffering a great deal more than usual in recent months as well.

Many students rely on this form of transportation because they are too financially strapped to find alternative transportation. For this

reason, bicycle thefts can have a especially devastating impact on those living below the poverty line.

Tagging is also a growing problem on campus. Vandalism in unlocked and low traffic restrooms have frequently been reported.

There have also been at least two reports of forced sexual assault during the past three years.

Criminal activity near the campus is a serious concern as well. On Nov 21, a Fresno man was shot in the foot at an apartment complex located just north of the college. The man left a trail of blood as he walked south on Blackstone Ave., eventually collapsing in front of the Yale avenue gas station. He was rushed to the hospital shortly thereafter.

On Sept 5, a homeless man allegedly stabbed a Fresno City College student repeatedly in her doorway. The slain student lived in an apartment complex 100 yards from campus grounds.

Students, staff and members of the public with any information regarding serious crimes should either dial 911 or contact the campus police immediately at 559-442-8201. l TWITTER.COM/PATH_OF_LOTUS

The Associated Student Government officially appointed a new executive board during its weekly meeting on Nov. 20.

The ASG senate approved the newly-appointed ASG President Monique Reyna’s selection for the executive board.

Among Reyna’s nominees who were approved are Edward James as the new legislative vice president; Sen. Michael Olague as the executive vice president and Sen. Victoria Mosby as the interim president pro-tempore.

LVP James acts as the manager within ASG and works with scheduling and committee assignments. James also serves as ASG’s SSCCC Region V Delegate.

“I wanted somebody that can take the friend aspect out of everything, and understand that this is a business,” said Reyna.

EVP Olague is now in charge of handling the ASG budget.

Interim PPT Mosby is the chair for the Inter-Club Council.

Reyna did not explain why Mosby was appointed as an interim.

Some have speculated she may just be looking to help out for the remainder of the semester or until the organization finds someone to fill the position permanently.

The three executive board positions became vacant because the people who held them resigned after the CCCSAA conference scandal in October.

Sen. Rosalinda Barba is ASG’s new secretary, taking a position previously held by President Reyna.

In another development, the senate accepted the resignation of Sen. Alex O’Casey yesterday. She is the seventh member of ASG to resign since the CCCSAA conference scandal last month.

It has been a rollercoaster semester for the ASG. It began with a controversial removal of a senator who made inflammatory statements on YouTube. Then came the mass exodus of ASG members including its president, LVP, EVP and PPT. James Demaree, the ousted l SEE ASG ON PAGE 2

NEWS

News Editor Kaitlin Regan Opinion Editor Troy Pope Arts & Entertainment Editor Matthew Elliott Sports Editor Tomas Kassahun Production Managers Troy Pope Ramiro Gudino Print Photo Editor Abel Cortez Online Photo Editor Paul Schlesinger Graphics Editor Jesse Franz Online Editors Troy Pope Jesse Franz Social Media Director Olga Verkhotina Illustrator Dale Holcomb Copy Chief Tomas Kassahun Copy Editors Sasha Bell Pabel Lopez David Thammavongsa Olga Verkhotina Business Manager Sydney Excinia

Reporters Chad Armbruster Patrick Forrest Jere Kirkland Mai Lee Frank Lopez Daisy Martinez Cox Odia August Promnitz Akeem Spearman Carl Turpin Kayla Valenzuela

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Editor-in-Chief Jesse Franz

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Rampage Staff

11.28.2012 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM F re

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Associated Student Government’s apology to the student body To Students, Faculty, Administration, and Staff, In striving to serve the student body through advocacy efforts and representation throughout California, the Associated Student Government of Fresno City College would like to formally apologize to its constituents for acts of misconduct that oc-

dympna.ugwu-oju@fresnocitycollege.edu

Tip Line: 559.442.8262 Fax: 559.265.5783 Twitter.com/FCCRampage Facebook.com/FCCRampage YouTube.com/rampagenews Send Questions or Letters to the Editor to:

editorial@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College C/O The Rampage 1101 E. University Ave Fresno, CA 93741

curred at the CCCSSA Conference on the weekend of October 19-21, 2012.

The Associated Student Government assumes responsibility and proper disciplinary actions have occurred. As the voice of the student body, members of the ASG are entrusted to lead with integrity and professionalism. It is our duty to

serve as liaisons for each student at Fresno City College. We will continue to represent you to the best of our ability and appreciate your understanding and continued support.

Sincerely, The Associated Student Government of Fresno City College

Be heard! Submit a letter to the editor today! 300 words or less. editorial@therampageonline.com Views expressed in letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect those of the Rampage or its staff.

l CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ASG senator had spoken out against nowformer ASG President Nathan Alonzo. He drew attention with his outspoken criticism of the organization and its leadership.

“I am hereby stating that three people should either publically or individually apologize for their actions, or should resign,” Demaree said on YouTube.

Demaree didn’t know it then, but he would get his wish. However, the resignations would have nothing to do with Demaree’s accusations.

After a long process, Demaree was removed from the senate by his peers on Sept. 25.

At the time, Demaree said he was shocked by the verdict. “I am absolutely stunned that people that acted like they were my friends, or people that had said in previous meetings to give me a chance, voted to have me removed,” Demaree said.

Even ASG Faculty Adviser Sean Henderson described the removal process of Demaree as “clunky.”

FIRE, a Philadelphia-based group that fights for free speech rights in higher education, said about the Demaree case, “Hopefully, the Fresno City College students and the students they elected to the Associated Student Government will ulti-

New ASG executive board

mately recognize the wisdom of protecting free speech, and the ASG will reinstate Demaree on appeal.”

Demaree filed an appeal which the ASG Constitution allows.

At yesterday’s ASG meeting, Adviser Henderson announced that the appeals committee has reached a decision regarding Demaree, Photo by Paul Schlesinger. The ASG votes in Michael but the results will Olague as executive vice president on Nov. 20. not be announced could begin with additional removal prountil Demaree has been informed. Hen- cesses of the accused members of ASG that derson said the results will be mailed to haven’t resigned, if Sen. Hayes fulfills her Demaree. declaration to seek their removal for their The issue of the potential removal conduct at CCCSAA. processes that was brought up by Sen. President Reyna, in the meantime, Hayes on Nov. 13 is currently on hold hopes for a fresh start next semester. pending the verdict of the Demaree ap- “There is the whole thing of trying to mend peal. Reyna said that the issue is currently or trying to reestablish ourselves with the closed until the appeals committee makes a students here on campus to let them know decision, and pending an ongoing investi- that we are serious and that we are here for gation from Dr. Chris Villa’s office. them.”

That means that the spring semester l TWITTER.COM/DARKTROY

Electronic Systems Technology Club collects canned food

BY MATTHEW ELLIOTT

melliott@therampageonline.com

Faculty Adviser Dr. Dympna Ugwu-Oju

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

Leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday, members of the Electronics Systems Technology club tirelessly campaigned on behalf of a worthy cause. For the second year running, the organization collected cans on behalf of the homeless community.

This past Wednesday, a representative from the Fresno Rescue Mission picked up the bounty of canned goods just in time for the holidays.

“Last year, we had a goal of 100 cans and got 300. This year we decided to up it a little bit to 300,” said EST Vice President David Lindsey. “The final number is 1555 cans, total. We raised five times our goal.”

Many students in EST themselves came from troubled backgrounds only to overcome adversity and uplift the poorest among us supplementing their dire needs.

“We’ve got a lot of community in-

volvement. Some of the teachers on campus have collected cans for us. One teacher brought in 60 from her class; another one’s bringing in another 100 today,” said Lindsey. “Patrick Smith is the coordinator for this. And he’s just done a really great job getting it together and getting everybody focused on bringing these in.”

Although Smith coordinated the drive, EST President Matthew Ford provided a great deal of support as well.

“This is the first time that I’ve been involved in it,” said Smith. “We made some attempts at some businesses but didn’t get a very good response. But our club president did. He got Chicago Title in on board, and they donated over 250 cans. He also distributed a memo to his classes and got some people to cooperate.”

None of this would have taken place without the inspirational leadership of the

EST adviser, Martinez.

“Mr. Martinez, our adviser, the first thing he thought was, ‘Oh boy. We’re setting the bar high next year.’ And that’s fine because we want to continue to grow. As people become more involved with the club, they’ll become more involved with the community. We’ll be able to go ahead and help out.”

Through these student’s gracious deeds and thanks to the encouraging leadership of their adviser, the organization is building upon their strength and conviction.

“We have a really good adviser. He doesn’t tell us what we need to do. But the fact that he gives so much to us, it makes us in turn want to give back,” said Lindsey.

“We’re becoming a very tight knit group of people. We’re really starting to grow.” l TWITTER.COMPATH_OF_LOTUS

NEWS

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 11.28.2012

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AFFIRMATIVE ACTION FACES TRIAL

BY PATRICK FORREST

pforrest@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College students enrolled in Business Law and the Legal Environment (BA 18) class will hold a mock trial of Fisher v. University of Texas on Dec. 5 in the OAB-251.

The mock trial will explore if the interpretation of the 14th Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause permits the University of Texas’ use of race in undergraduate admissions.

“The decision in this case could very well change admission practices everywhere similar to the Grutter v. Bollinger case did,” said Nancy Holland BA 18 instructor and director of the mock trial.

In 1997, the Texas legislature enacted a law requiring the University of Texas to admit all high school seniors who ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school classes. The UT decided to modify its race-neutral admissions policy because it found differences between the racial and ethnic makeup of the university’s undergraduate population and the state’s population.

The new policy continued to admit all in-state students who graduated in the top 10 percent of their high school classes.

For the remainder of the in-state freshmen class, however, the university would consider race as a factor in admission.

Abigail N. Fisher, a Caucasian female, was not in the top 10 percent of her class when she applied for undergraduate admission to the UT in 2008. Therefore, she competed for admission with other

non-top 10 percent in-state applicants.

The University of Texas didn’t grant Fisher admission.

Fisher filed a lawsuit against the university and other related defendants, claiming that the University of Texas’ use of race as a consideration in admission was in violation of the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment and a violation of Title 42.

The university argued that its use of race was a narrowly tailored means of pursuing greater diversity. The district court decided in favor of the University of Texas and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit affirmed the district court’s decision.

Fisher filed an appeal to the Supreme Court, appealing the appellate court’s decision.

Both Abigail Fisher and University of Texas teams will be represented by six

attorneys during FCC’s mock trial. The Fisher team will consist of Ashley Cable, Jalen Gibson, Ricardo Maudena, Ryan

Rios, Maricruz Ochoa and lead attorney Nathan Vieira.

The University of Texas will be represented by Kyle Alfhelm, Andrew Anderson, Thomas Diaz, Celerino Penaloza, Angela Ramos and lead attorney Maria Vargas.

“The groups actually get in touch with the actual council with Fisher and the actual council with the University of Texas,” said Holland. “So when they are finally ready to answer questions, we contact them.”

Justices for this mock Supreme Court are Elise Alvarez, Christopher Martinez, Noemi Rangel, Harpal Singh, Victoria Zarate and chief Justice Anneke Herrin.

“As they’re discussing cases, these justices can interrupt them at any time, so there will be a bit of a dialogue going on,” said Holland. “I liken it to the ‘Wizard of Oz’ when they go and meet the wizard, they don’t know what’s going to happen and they’re a little shaky in their boots but that’s what makes it so entertaining.”

The trial will be dedicated to Gayla Jurevich and David Racki. Jurevich recently took a position as director of the Workplace Learning Resource Center with Merced College while Racki will be retiring from FCC in May 2013 after 28 years of service.

The trial is a free event for all and sign language interpreters will be available. l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8

Bookstore starts yearlong buybacks The Fresno City College Bookstore is implementing a new program which will make it easier for students to sell their used textbooks.

Mary Beth Wynn, an interim assistant bookstore manager at Fresno City College says that students can return their textbooks that they have purchased this semester, last semester or even a semester before and get cash for them.

“Usually we had buyback at the beginning of semester, at the end of the semester. But now it’s every day [as well],” said Wynn.

According to Wynn, the new everyday buyback program started in mid-October this year but so far it has been in a test mode and not many students know about it

yet. The bookstore is planning on marketing a new program after its beginning of the semester buy back in January of 2013.

To sell a textbook back students just have to come into the bookstore and ask whether their book qualifies.

“We have a list that we go off that we’re purchasing certain books,” said Wynn. “And so if that textbook is on the list, then we’ll purchase the book from the student. If it’s not on the list then basically we’re not using the book anymore.”

If the title and the edition of the book are still on the list of the books that the bookstore is planning on using next semester, students can get the wholesale price of it back. FCC Bookstore sales clerk Deborah Stovall says that the bookstore is constantly updating the list of the buyback eligible books according to what the textbook company wants.

According to Wynn, students cannot only sell back textbooks that they bought from the FCC bookstore but they could have been bought from other different stores as well. The only important criteria is that the bookstore would be able to resell it next semester and it’s in a good condition.

“It needs to be, kinda gently used, because a student will buy that book again and they’ll need it,” said Wynn. “The pages have to be there, there can’t be anything tored out. There could be highlight in there but if it’s very damaged we won’t take it back.”

Both Wynn and Stovall say that the amount of money a student can get for their book varies depending on the book itself.

But the most that students can get during an everyday buyback is a wholesale price.

“The publisher, the buyback com-

Ram Slam is happening during finals week. The library will be open until 11 p.m. from Dec. 5 to Dec.11.

Coffee and snacks will be provided.

BY KAYLA VALENZUELA

kvalenzuela@therampageonline.com

BY DAISY MARTINEZ

dmartinez@therampageonline.com

Do you need ideas for ways to fill your winter break? Whether you’re looking for how to kick back or adventure, there are plenty of ways to spend your time off.

pany sets the wholesale price. That’s what we pay when we order from them,” said Stovall. “You get what we pay for it. What we get out of it is we don’t have to pay shipping for it to get here. But otherwise we’re giving you as much as we would give that company.”

The new buyback program is also available for students at Willow International Center, Madera Center and Reedley College.

According to Wynn, the program is very convenient for students as they don’t have to look for a privately owned bookstore to sell their books back. Now they can do it on campus and at any time.

Wynn said, “Instead of waiting till the end of the semester they can sell it when they want to.” l TWITTER.COM/VERKHOTINA

Why do we celebrate Christmas? For some it’s a religious holiday. For others it’s a time to find the best deals on the latest gadgets.

Photo by Jacob Windham

BY OLGA VERKHOTINA

overkhotina@therampageonline.com

BY DAISY MARTINEZ

dmartinez@therampageonline.com

BEYOND THE PRINT THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

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NEWS

11.28.2012 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

New ASG president commits to student advocacy

BY KAITLIN REGAN

kregan@therampageonline.com

Q A

: What made you want to be a part of ASG? : In all honesty, it’s kind of a personal story. I had a younger brother and he went to Reedley. He had a lot of issues with financial aid, got behind in his class and didn’t have tutors available. His teacher wasn’t one that was willing to work with him. My brother was really frustrated and just dropped school and about a year later, we ended up burying him. He passed away.

So, the neighborhood I come from isn’t the best, but I’m good with kids. I always have been, so all the little kids know me. I play with them; I tutor them, and I refuse to let that happen to anyone else. So, I started to think, ‘Ok, in order to make things happen, I have to be in a position where I can actually make things happen.’ I didn’t know what student government was, so I started asking around.

I sat in one of the meetings, got an idea of how they worked and what they were about and then I did the application, and I was in. : What have you learned while in ASG? : I’ve just learned that when you’re a part of groups, like clubs, you guys are all different.

Say it’s a club. Everybody’s different but they have the same common interest, whatever drives them to that club. ASG is somewhat the same but you have more diverse people and you guys have the common goals as far as wanting to help people but all different reasons and all different ways.

So here, I’ve just learned how to get along with people from different backgrounds and how to prioritize my time and organize myself a lot better, so that I

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actually get things done. I’ve made comments saying that they them know that we are serious always been a people’s person, don’t feel that I am going to get and that we are here for them. We you know, like just get out there anything done just because I have have to reestablish ourselves with and meet people, but it helped me to clean up Nathan’s mess. I really faculty and administrators and a little more as far as presentations don’t feel there’s much of a mess as far as correcting all of that, I go and speeches. Being a part of to clean up. It was something, think that as long as they see that ASG, you have to interact with not only students but faculty and administrators and all of that. So it has kind of helped me in a professional sense. : What are some of the strengths and weaknesses of ASG? : I think the strongest thing about this ASG is the people that are here. I am really blessed that those who have stayed are here. I think that we have a really strong team and I think the team being strong is going to be able to push this organization forward and get through what we really need to get through and make sure that we get things done.

As far as the weakness, I’d say that our only weakness is numbers. You know, in order to get things accomplished, it’s a lot easier when you have more people. When you have fewer people, they are spreading themselves thin. You have to sit on more committees, you have to pick up a little more work to get things done, and at the same time, we’re students, so we still have our studies Photo by Paul Schlesinger. ASG President Monique Reyna. and classes and all of that. So I would say at the moment that’s kind of our biggest weakness. you know, something that really we get back to business and are : What happened to ASG hit us hard, but at the same time, taking care of what we need to recently? What is the plan we’ve dealt with it. We’ve had take care of, I think that will. You to correct its course? recently, I believe, seven people know how they say that actions : I don’t really think I need resign and I think there was like, speak louder than words. I think to answer that because you what, 10 people involved? That that fits that perfectly. guys have basically posted it doesn’t leave much of a mess to : Did being appointed all on your newspaper. So I’m clean up. president shock you? pretty sure you guys are all well There is the whole thing Why? informed as to what’s been going of trying to mend or trying to : Yes. I had a feeling that I on. As far as what needs to be reestablish ourselves with the was going to get nominated, to correct it, some people have students here on campus to let but did I think that I was going

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to be the only one they saw something in to nominate? No. Did I think that I was going to have a unanimous vote for me?

No. And did I think I was going to get the whole standing ovation?

Of course not. So I think that’s what really got me shocked. I knew some people believed in me, but I didn’t realize how much people believed in me. : What are your plans for the ASG as its new president? : We basically have a road map and that’s a calendar.

That speaks for itself. We already have a lot of things that we need to get done on top of that. I’m really hoping to get the designated smoking areas finalized. I know there are a lot of people from the senate who have a lot of great ideas that they want to do this coming semester, so it’s just developing those. We just want to make the campus overall what the ASG is about, which is making it easier for students.

I wasn’t here two years ago or three years ago, but I do know that ASG has somewhat of a bad rep with faculty members or administrators. I want to mend those bridges. I want ASG to be able to work well with not only students but faculty members and administrators and staff and everybody. And I know there’s this, and I don’t know why, but there’s this tension with the Rampage. I don’t know where that started, and I don’t even know why it is, but that’s another thing that I want to fix. You know, you guys are the ones that report to the students and we’re the ones that represent the students. I think that rather than working against each other, we would both benefit and the students would benefit if we learned to work with each other.

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l TWITTER.COM/K_C_REGAN

Students want more technology, online options

BY PABEL LOPEZ

plopez@therampageonline.com

A majority of Fresno City College students would like more technology in the instruction they receive at the college, according to the results of a technology survey conducted in the spring of 2012.

Seventy-seven percent of the students polled said they want their instructors to hold virtual office hours, and 63 percent said they would take a hybrid class with meetings that meet face-toface half of the time and online the other half.

The survey also showed that 43 percent of FCC students were not aware that they could forward their SCCCD email to their personal emails.

“This is sponsored by the

distance education committee, but the results will be used all over campus for different things,” said Lynn Badertscher, member of the committee.

Via email, 2,884 FCC students responded to the survey by the Distance Education committee to gauge students’ use of technology and improvements they want the college to implement.

Don Lopez, director of technology, said one of the goals of the survey is to “figure out what students wanted.” He added, “We know students want classes but in what method?”

Another goal of the survey, according to Badertscher, is to learn the technological habits of FCC students. As well as find out the needs of students enrolled in online classes and help them attain more success.

Faculty members also

completed a similar survey about technology and the way they use it in their online and face-to-face classes. There are plans to compare the results of the students’ survey and the faculty responses in an upcoming flex day workshop.

“This is the beginning of a larger conversation about distance education.”

-Don Lopez Director of Technology “We’re taking those results and combining them with the students’ survey results and trying to match and make sure that our perceptions of why a student

takes an online class and what they need to succeed and then the perception of a faculty member as to why a student takes an online class and make sure they match,” Lopez said. “And if they’re not matching, why aren’t they matching and what can we do to make sure that our faculty members are trained appropriately?”

In response to a survey question asking for ways to improve distance education, FCC students listed online tutoring, online counseling, educational plans and more online classes.

Lopez said the request for online tutoring and counseling and educational planning are all things that students in face-toface classes already take advantage of so it came as no surprise.

The survey was prepared

by Lopez and Badertscher with revisions from other committee

members. It consisted of 31 questions that ranged from broad and wide ranging topics such as age, gender and email accounts to specialized questions about online classes, social media and internet usage on and off campus.

“We sent it out for the first time in the spring semester,” said Badertscher.

The committee has not decided about future surveys.

“We’re all really pleased about getting this kind of information,” Badertscher said. “I wouldn’t be surprised to see us doing more of it.”

Lopez also said he thinks this is the “beginning of a larger conversation about distance education and technology and our students and what they look like in the 21st century.” l TWITTER.COM/PABELLOPEZ

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 11.28.2012

NEWS

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VALENTINO TAKES REIN OF THE ACADEMIC SENATE

BY TOMAS KASSAHUN

tkassahun@therampageonline.com

It was not a transition psychology instructor Mary Ann Valentino expected to make anytime soon. But after 16 years as an instructor at Fresno City College and serving on various committees, Valentino has been thrust to the helm of one of the college’s most important bodies.

Valentino suddenly became president of the Academic Senate nine months early when Claudia Habib accepted the position of interim dean of instruction at Reedley College.

“I am always a bit surprised when people look to me to lead.

I have always described myself as a reluctant leader,” Valentino said. “I hesitate because I am much more comfortable being a watcher and a worker.”

Even as a child growing up in Reedley, Calif. Valentino was first an observer. She says she was fascinated by people and would quietly sit and watch people interact. Because she was a good listener and seemed trustworthy, friends would divulge all kinds of very private information to her.

“I was amazed by the public versus private lives of people and the differences from person to person and family to family,” said Valentino.

Childhood was also a struggle for Valentino as she suffered from chronic, lowgrade depression also known as dysthymic disorder.

“I was too young to be the container for other people’s problems,” said Valentino. “I carried this weight around with me and developed a negative thought pattern that clouded my view of the world and my future.

I often felt a sense of helplessness and hopelessness.”

In high school, she hit a low point and made a decision to fight her way out of the depression. She found the courage to tell someone about her silent suffering and actively worked on challenging her negative thought patterns.

“I had a loving family, teachers who encouraged me, and friends who supported me.

The positives in my life far

outweighed the negative; I had severely emotionally disturbed 2001 and soon opened a private to find a way to shift my focus,” children and adolescents under practice with a colleague. She Valentino said. “My depression the supervision of a psychologist. became a Medi-Cal and Mediwas such a part of who I was for Meanwhile, her husband started Care provider and worked as a such a long time that I cannot an agriculture-related business consultant for some of the skilled imagine who I would be today and bought a small orange farm. nursing facilities in the area and without having experienced it.”

In 1999, Valentino decided for the Saint Agnes Medical Her experience ultimately to attend the California School Center AIDS Project. Valentino fueled her compassion for others of Professional Psychology continues to maintain a small and her strong desire to instill in Fresno where she earned private practice in Fresno. hope in people. At the same time, a doctorate degree in clinical As the Academic Senate Valentino was driven by her psychology with an emphasis president of FCC, Valentino parents, who wanted her to have in ecosystem child psychology. hopes to use her background in what they never had.

Before she graduated, however, clinical psychology to maintain Her father had quit school her father died. perspective. when he was 16 years old to take care of his father and never returned to school. Valentino’s mother wanted to attend college to study psychology, but her parents did not believe women should study psychology.

“My parents made many sacrifices to make sure that I could devote myself to pursuing an advanced degree,” she said. “They did not want me to have to work and attend school at the same time, so they funded my education. This allowed me to focus on school and the volunteer work that I found personally rewarding.”

Coming out of high school in 1984, Valentino wasn’t emotionally ready to leave home to attend college, so she stayed with her parents and attended Reedley College.

After one year, she Photo by Paul Schlesinger. Professor Maryann Valentino is the transferred to San Diego new Academic Senate president.

State University to study psychology.

“It was his dream as much “This is a complex But as a first-generation as it was mine to earn a Ph.D,” responsibility, because we are college student, Valentino was said Valentino. such a diverse group,” said met with some challenges.

While in graduate Valentino. “We share a strong “I remember feeling like school, Valentino worked at the commitment to student learning the other students knew so much California Men’s Colony which and student success and a desire more than I did about how to is a medium security men’s to enrich our community.” navigate through college,” said prison, a local community mental She admits she can be Valentino. health clinic with children and hard-headed and idealistic, but After getting a bachelor’s families referred through Child she is also willing to step back degree in 1988, she moved Protective Services and a valley and listen to others’ point of view. back to Reedley where she juvenile hall.

“I want to listen to the got married and took some After completing her faculty wisely and act as their time off school to work as a pre-doctoral and post-doctoral voice in an honest and diligent case manager at Visalia Youth internships at FCC, Valentino manner,” said Valentino. “I Services. There she worked with obtained a license to practice in want the faculty to be genuinely

confident in my ability to represent them and work collaboratively with administrators, classified staff, and students. We are all here because we believe that education can transform lives.”

Outside of work, Valentino enjoys reading novels, watching television series and movies.

“I especially like to watch a whole season of a series in a short period of time. Last summer I watched all six seasons of the Sopranos. There were some days that I stayed in my pajamas and watched all day,” said Valentino.

“My husband and I like to watch the same movie over and over again until we know most of the dialogue by heart. Both of us are real home-bodies.”

Valentino also spends time in art museums and galleries.

“I can easily spend 15 minutes looking at an interesting piece of art. Family members don’t especially like to go with me because I linger too much,” she said.

Still much of her time is dedicated to work.

“It will take me literally years to read a novel because I have three or four or five work-related books constantly going at the same time and I am admittedly not a strong reader,” said Valentino. “I wish I had enough time and energy in the day to track my students more closely.

Some students fail because they don’t believe in their ability to succeed. They need someone to encourage them.”

She jokes that she wants to die at her desk grading papers.

But in the end, she wants to know that she contributed to her students’ ability to achieve their goals and FCC’s ability to fulfill the mission.

Valentino advises students to create a 3-5 year plan with lots of mini-goals along the way.

“Write out strategies to attain those goals.

Identify positive role models to emulate.

Update and revise your plan if necessary,” said Valentino.

“Persevere; ask for help when you need it. And for goodness sake, do your homework.” l TWITTER.COM/THERAMPAGEGUY

6

NEWS

Intermediate/ Advanced Voice Recital 11/30/2012, 7:30 p.m.

Free FCC OAB Auditorium.

11.28.2012 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

Rams Jams: Guitar Showcase 11/29/2012, 7:30 p.m. $5 suggested donation at the door FCC OAB Auditorium.

Proceeds benefit the Fresno City Guitar Society.

NOVEMBER DECEMBER

Student Recital 11/30/2012, 12 p.m.

Free FCC OAB Auditorium.

The Student Recitals showcase FCC music students in chamber music performances.

Jazz Composers’ Orchestra 12/3/2012, 7:30 p.m.

For tickets, call 559-266-9494.

Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre 1226 N Wishon Ave Fresno, Calif. 93728.

Brass & Percussion Winter Concert 12/4/2012, 7:30 p.m.

Free.

FCC Main Stage Theatre.

FCC Concert Band Winter Concert 12/5/2012, 7:30 p.m. $8 General, $6 Students/Seniors/ FCC Staff.

FCC Main Stage Theatre.

28 29 30

Christmas Tree Lane “Walk night” 1/1/2013 6:00 p.m.10:00 p.m., 1/11/2013 6:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.

Free Van Ness Boulevard between Shields and Shaw Avenues(No Vehicles).

String Ensemble 12/6/2012 5:00 p.m.

Free.

FCC Recital Hall (MS-132).

Opera Workshop: Music Pot Luck 12/11/2012 7:30 p.m.

Free.

FCC Recital Hall (MS-132).

The Story of Carbon 12/17/2012, 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Free.

The College of Science and Mathematics present and exhibition titled “The Story of Carbon.”

Henry Madden Library, Leon S. Peters Ellipse Gallery, second floor, north, CSU Fresno. Contact information: College of Science and Mathematics 559-278-3936.

Bike’pocalypse (RideNo.2) Fresnobikeparty.com 12/21/2012, How to Train Your 7:45 p.m.

Dragon - Live Free 12/19/2012, 7 – 9 p.m.

“Ride at your own risk” ride.

Ticket prices vary.

Don’t forget your lights, people under Save Mart Center.

18 must wear a helmet.

Showcasing: Christmas Tree Lane.

Pitstop: ColdStone Creamery, Fulton 55 presents: FigGardenVillage.

Eva Scow’s Holiday Meeting at Spokeasy, Crescent Music Festival Tower District.

12/23/2012 Doors: 6 p.m. / Show: 7 p.m. (event ends at 11 p.m.)

Holiday Concert - Clovis $15 - $20 Community Band 12/23/2012, 2:30 p.m.

Free. Donations will be accepted at the door.

Shaghoian Performing Arts Theater, Fresno, Calif.

More info 559-447-1196.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Tape

By Stephen Belber 11/30/2012 - 12/1/2012, 7:30 p.m. $14 general, $12 students/seniors/FCC staff, $8 Group (10 or more) FCC Studio 105 Theatre.

“Fascinating and entertaining…a terrific play…Real talk, real characters, real situations—a real play.”

—New York Post

City Dance Fall Workshop 11/30/2012 - 12/1/2012, 7:30 p.m. $14 general, $12 students/seniors/FCC staff, $8 group rate (10 or more).

FCC Main Stage Theatre.

A workshop dance production of exciting dance works choreographed by faculty and students.

Piano Recital 12/3/2012, 7:30 p.m.

Free.

FCC Recital Hall (MS-132).

Fresno Community Concert Band 12/2/2012 3:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. $10 general, $5 children 12 and under Shaghoian Concert Hall 2770 E International Ave Fresno, Calif. 93730 FCC Jazz Ensemble & Guests 12/6/2012, 7:30 PM $8 General, $6 Students/Seniors/ JazzFresno/FCC Staff FCC Main Stage Theatre Choral Holiday Concert 12/7/2012, 7:30 PM $8 General, $6 Students/Seniors/ FCC Staff FCC Old Administration Building Auditorium

Ram Slam 12/5/2012-12/6/2012, 12/10/2012-12/11/2012 7:30-11 p.m.

Tutoring and computers available FCC library.

Coffee and Snacks provided.

OPEN DURING ALL CALENDAR DAYS

Fresno Jewish Film Series: “Salsa Tel Aviv” 12/22/2012, 7:00pm Tickets are $8.

As part of the will be shown at Temple Beth Israel, 6622 N. Maroa.

More information is available by calling 439-9638.

Concert for Carnegie Benefit concert for wind ensemble going to New York International Music Festival 12/8/2012, 6:30 p.m. $50 VIP, $20 General.

OAB Auditorium.

Downtown Ice Rink Open every day through 11/21/2012 to 1/13/2013.

Sunday - Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Friday - Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

General admission $10.

Children 12 and under $8. (includes parking validation and skate rental).

Diehardz Music presents Sweet Leaf’s Nightmare Before Christmas Show!!

12/22/2012, 7:00 p.m. Doors at 7:30 p.m. $10 in advance.

21 and over.

The Babylon Club Christmas Benefit to help the homeless of Fresno, Calif.

Sweet Leaf (Black Sabbath/Ozzy Tribute Band).

More bands TBA.

Love the Captive presents: Ugly Sweater Christmas Party 2012!

A Toys for Tots benefit: 12/22/2012 Doors: 8 p.m. / Show: 9 p.m. $8 cover - $4 with toy Rademacher, Ornery Ones, Niilo Smeds FULTON 55

Calendar design by David Thammavongsa

A&E

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 11.28.2012

BY MATTHEW ELLIOTT

melliott@therampageonline.com

“Lincoln” is a true-to-life portrayal of the Abraham Lincoln during the final months of the American Civil War. The film is directed by Steven Spielberg and stars Daniel Day Louis as the 16th president.

The film follows Lincoln through three chapters of American history. Often times, these moments are drawn out through long periods of persuasion and discussion involving various government officials. Although these scenes may come across as lengthy, the atmosphere of a Union in eminent crisis keeps the dialogue engaging.

Louis sets himself apart from previous actors who loosely embodied romanticized interpretations of Abraham Lincoln. In the past, those depicting the president commonly produced a deep and ostentatious baritone; bellowing grandiose oratories to pronounce his extraordinary leadership faculties.

In contrast, Louis’ portrayal consists of higher vocal tones with a mild rasp. Although presidential and oftentimes intellectually striking,

‘The Sessions’ is touching

BY MATTHEW ELLIOTT

melliott@therampageonline.com

Photo by DreamWorks Studio

‘LINCOLN’ IS MIND-BLOWING

7

his characterization of Lincoln steers clear of lofty idealism.

Daniel Day Louis’ expertly crafted rendition is consistent with his ethos as an actor. Louis notoriously dedicates a considerable amount of time studying and rehearsing the essence of his roles.

Lincoln is arguably his finest work.

The accuracy of this film warrants its incorporation into high school curriculums. Those with extensive literary knowledge may realize that the passage of the thirteenth amendment and the negotiated terms of Southern surrender to the North are closely intertwined. However, most citizens have yet to comprehend exactly how the process transpired. “Lincoln” flawlessly connects these pivotal components of our collective history.

“Lincoln” is as astounding as it is important.

Students and faculty would do well to broaden their understanding of this monumental period of our history by attending a screening and paying attention.

Grade: A l TWITTER.COM/PATH_OF_LOTUS

Every now and then, an independent movie comes along that challenges our values and prejudices. Fox Searchlight has once again released such a film.

“The Sessions” is a true to life story of a man who suffered the ravages of Polio during the 1950s. The movie takes place in 1988 during his adult life as a writer in Berkley.

In order to survive, Mark O’Brian, played by John Hawkes, spends 20 hours per day living in a negative pressure ventilator or “iron lung.” An iron lung is a sophisticated device that produces an unnatural environment that allows for severely debilitated bodies to breathe with less resistance in order to supply enough oxygen to survive.

During his four hours outside of the ventilator, O’Brian spends his entire life receiving special care and travels everywhere on a wheeled gurney. He cannot move on his own, bathe or turn his head. Although he can experience the sensation of touch, he has no motor control. Up to this point in his life, he has yet to engage in any sexual activity.

Through the advice of his catholic priest, played by William

H. Macy, O’Brian plans to lose his virginity through the assistance of Cheryl, a sex therapist played by Helen Hunt. Unlike prostitution, which is illegal in the state of California, sex therapists are given strict guidelines and are professionally trained to delve deep into the psyche of their patients while enhancing their sexual experience. Sex therapists are limited to a maximum of six sessions.

The film does an excellent job of capturing the nature of female attraction. Much of the story’s resolution takes place through Cheryl’s challenges and her coming to terms with life choices.

This is done by highlighting the dismissively absurd attachment style and tact of the male lead. This allows audiences to focus solely toward the emotional attachments of the female roles. This storytelling style is well executed and well received.

This is a film that is intended for mature and educated audiences only. As a romantic dramedy, “The Sessions” is as worthy as date movies come. Couples would do well to attend a screening.

Grade: Al TWITTER.COM/PATH_OF_LOTUS

8

A&E

11.28.2012 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

STUDENT SINGS TO HELP THOSE IN NEED

BY MATTHEW ELLIOTT

melliott@therampageonline.com

Nineteen-year-old Fresno City College student Richard High has spent years performing different styles of music. As a gifted musician, High has released five albums since his childhood. His experience also includes tenor work for the Clovis West Choral Choir.

On Dec. 9, High will perform a fundraiser at the Hope Lutheran Church.

The upcoming hour-long concert is something of a tradition for the High family.

“It’s a concert that I hold every single Christmas season. We do this to benefit different charities,” said High. “Admission is free but donations are available at the door for the Red Cross, Children’s Hospital and the Margery Mason Center.”

High’s father and health expert David High will also join the event to raise awareness about better nutrition.

“Well he talks about how to better your lives via nutrition. He’s the owner of Sunrise Health Foods,” said High. ”And so he talks about medicines that can benefit your life and how to stay healthy during the holiday season and for general wellness.”

In the spirit of the season, the pro-

gram’s pieces are appropriate for an atmosphere of this nature.

“I perform some Christmas music and I also perform some classical music.

That’s what my repertoire is, mainly,” said High.

In addition to Richard and his father’s gestures to the community, a pianist is scheduled to share the stage.

“We have a special guest named Diana Curry,” said High. “She’s going to play the piano for us and she’s actually going to accompany me for some songs. She’s going to play the piano while I sing.”

Students and faculty are encouraged to experience this holiday program and to donate to the charitable causes on hand.

“I want to make people feel good about the holidays,” said High. “And to come out of the concert with good spirits, spreading good Christmas cheer and warmth.”

The Hope Lutheran Church is located on 364 E. Barstow Ave. For more information about Richard High or to contact him, visit www.rickyhigh.com

l TWITTER.COM/PATH_OF_LOTUS

Photo by Abel Cortez. Fresno City College student Richard High, 19, will perform at a fundraiser at the Hope Lutheran Church on Dec. 9.

Photo by Paul Schlesinger. Fresno City College brass and concert band instructor Dale Engstrom prepares his students for the Carnegie Hall benefit concert in MS-135 on Nov. 21.

Benefit concert for Carnegie Hall trip

BY OLGA VERKHOTINA

overkhotina@therampageonline.com

The Fresno City College music department is staging “Concert for Carnegie” to support the Wind Ensemble’s participation at the New York International Music Festival.

The Wind Ensemble along with FCC Handbell Choir and music instructor Larry Honda will perform in the OAB Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 8.

Dr. Lawrence Sutherland, artistic director for the NYMF and former California State University, Fresno band director, will also join the benefit to guest-conduct a music piece.

The event will start with a special social hour at 6:30

p.m. The Handbell choir will also play during the social hour where the audience will get a chance to socialize, have drinks and snacks, and participate in a silent auction for items such as gift baskets. All of the proceeds from the auction will go toward the trip expenses.

“This is the first time I’ve done something like this,” said Dale Engstrom, brass and concert band instructor.

“But I think it’s going to be a real special event.”

Engstrom said that the “Concert for Carnegie” will consist of two parts. The first half will have the music that Wind Ensemble may play during the New York International Music Festival. The second half will have lighter holiday Christmas music.

Concert for Carnegie is a fundraising event to help

approximately 60 FCC students who are planning to participate in the New York festival. The group is invited to perform from April 7 to 11, 2013.

“This whole trip is going to cost about $100,000,” Engstrom said. “And I would say we’re not quite a quarter of the way there.”

The tickets for Concert for Carnegie are $20 for general admission and $50 for VIPs. VIP tickets will include reserved seating and two drink tickets. For more information, contact FCC box office at 559-442-8221.

l TWITTER.COM/VERKHOTINA

A&E

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 11.28.2012

9

Community Orchestra Photo by Ramiro Gudino

Jeffrey Sandersier leads the Fresno City College Community Orchestra on Nov. 27 in the OAB. The ochestra perfomed 19th and 20th century music.

l TWITTER.COM/ISTENEFAS

The Nutcracker returns to Fresno

BY MAI LEE

mlee@therampageonline.com

With Thanksgiving and Black Friday keeping everyone busy last week, something very exciting came to Fresno. The Sacramento Ballet thrilled Fresno audiences with its performance of an annual holiday tradition, “The Nutcracker.” The Sacramento Ballet featured 35 professional

ballet dancers and 125 local dancers.

This was the seventh year that the Sacramento company has traveled to Fresno entertain locals. Children and adults came to the Saroyan Theatre in downtown Fresno to enjoy the show. Prices for tickets ranged from $56 to $86 per person.

The Nutcracker is a story about a toymaker who presents

four lifelike toys to a group of children. The nutcracker toy caught the eyes of a little girl named Clara who later saw the toy come to life.

Later that same night, Clara witnesses a battle between the evil Mouse King and the Nutcracker. Clara distracts the Mouse King just long enough for the Nutcracker to defeat him. After his defeat, the Nutcracker turns

into a prince and takes Clara to the Land of Sweets.

Within The Nutcracker, there’s the beautiful Sugar Palm Fairy who ruled the beautiful Land of Sweets waiting for the return of the Nutcracker prince.

Along with the Sugar Palm Fairy, there are the human size mice and the Gingerbread man soldiers, played by little ballerina dancers.

After everyone began to disap-

pear including the Nutcracker, Clara woke up wondering if it was all a dream.

All in all, the show displayed many talented ballerinas.

There is nothing like seeing this story played live on stage. The Nutcracker has started the holiday joy with great meaning of Christmas. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

Cereal Trip is surreal

BY PABEL LOPEZ

plopez@therampageonline.com

Cereal Trip is a restaurant in the Fulton Mall area that specializes in cereal. Customers are allowed to choose the type of cereal and milk and any additional toppings they may want.

The restaurant offers eight different milks for customers and their cereal; the list of milk includes coconut, almond, skim, soy, chocolate, whole, horchata and 2 percent. The restaurant is also an art gallery that showcases local artists.

The restaurant has a video game console set up in the corner

of the room for customers to play while they eat. The restaurant is decorated with pieces of art inspired by video game and cereal.

The tables have vintage cereal boxes as decorations.

Behind the cash register, a picture of Sonny the Cocoa Bird in some sort of demented welcomes customers. Many flyers and papers announcing upcoming video game tournaments and art shows at the restaurant also sit next to the cash register.

The restaurant offers premixed cereals including one called “Coconut Dream” which consists of Frosted Flakes with coconut milk and coconut flakes.

I ordered one of these mixes offered by the restaurant. The S’mores mix I ordered is Golden grahams cereal, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. I also added plain chocolate M&Ms to the mix and chose 2 percent milk.

At first, this seemed like a sure recipe for diabetes in a bowl but once I had the first spoonful I stopped worrying about all that and I was transported to a different time when I was young and cereal was more than a quick breakfast as I rushed to school.

As the cereal became soggy and the chocolate syrup turned the 2 percent milk into chocolate

milk the 10 oz. bowl became more and more delicious. The m&ms had lost their candy covered shells and all that was left were small pieces of chocolate floating around in chocolate milk.

The restaurant had slow indie music playing over the speakers which helped the relaxed ambient in the place.

The only thing out of the ordinary was when the employee behind the counter pulled out his guitar and played along to the music coming from the sound system.

The place seems like a nice relaxing place for people to sit and study or just get a blast from

the past by eating cereal and playing Super Nintendo.

Cereal Trip also has sandwiches, soups and drinks along with the cereal but the main draw here is the 28 cereals, eight milks, and 17 toppings.

Cereal Trip works because of its simplicity, there is nothing pretentious about simply walking into a place and ordering a bowl of cereal.

At $3 for a bowl the low price also helps one buy into the idea of driving down van ness, playing some video games and paying for cereal. l TWITTER.COM/PABELLOPEZ

Instagram photos courtesy of Cereal Trip.

10

OPINION

Campus Voices

“What food choices would you like to see on campus?”

11.28.2012 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

EXPAND FOOD OPTIONS ON CAMPUS

BY RAMPAGE EDITORIAL BOARD editorial@therampageonline.com

Yara Chavez Business “Panda Express because Fresno State has one and it would be cool if we had one too.”

Jessica Benavides Liberal Studies “I’d like to see more Mexican food in the cafeteria.”

Edward Marcos Health “We need a legit salad bar, like selfserved salads.”

Aryanna Arredion Anthropology “I say Korean food, their BBQ chicken is awesome.”

WRITTEN BY DAISY MARTINEZ & FRANK LOPEZ PHOTOS BY PAUL SCHLESINGER

Food choices on the Fresno City College campus are very slim. Right now our campus offers Taher, the food service in the cafeteria and the food cart near the main fountain and the Pacific Café next to the bookstore.

At least on paper, the situation is complicated. Right now, Even though Taher holds an exclusive contract with the college to provide food on campus, Pacific Café continues to operate because the eatery was already on campus and was grandfathered in even after Taher took over.

Many here in the Rampage think the food arrangement on campus is inadequate and unfair and not in the students’ best interests. Exclusive contracts limit our choices.

In 2014, the exclusive contract between Taher and FCC will expire and be up for renegotiation. The Rampage editorial board would like to put forth suggestions for additional or replacement food choices on the FCC campus.

News Editor Kaitlin Regan: Chipoltle Chipotle would be the perfect alternative for campus dining for students due to the options and healthy choices.

Because students need to make the best of every dime, they can be assured that Chipotle will provide them with a healthy bang for their buck. They can choose from many combinations of burritos, tacos and burrito bowls, students have a plethora of options before them.

Chipotle also supports family farmers and its ingredients contain no synthetic hormones. Its ties to the organic and local produce markets add revenue to the surrounding areas.

Online Photo Editor Paul Schlesinger: Jimmy John’s I would love to see a Jimmy John’s on our campus because the restaurant produces a quality sandwich at a fast

and efficient pace. This sandwich chain was started in 1983 in Illinois and caters to starving college students. Because of this, their prices are easy on the wallet.

Sandwiches usually range from $5 to $6, while soda costs $1.60 or $1.75.

The menu is divided between sandwich types, which range from 8-inch subs to clubs. While there are sandwich combinations you can pick from the menu, you can customize these combinations anyway you like.

Arts & Entertainment Editor Matthew Elliott: Pacific Café So long as Pacific Café makes significant changes, their contract with the school should be renewed. First of all, they need to accept credit and debit cards. Electronic payments are now the definitive standard for transactions.

Second, since January of last year, the location has consistently failed to reach the health department’s compliance guidelines. For at least seven instances in a row, the café has been cited with minor health code violations. Third, we suggest that Pacific Café borrows Taher’s diversity practices. If these three serious concerns can be addressed immediately, the business should stay.

Social Media Director Olga Verkhotina: Pita Pit Pita Pit offers some good and healthy options. Salads, pita wraps, sandwiches, freshly made smoothies and snacks sound like a nice change of pace from greasy hamburgers, French fries and soda.

Pita Pit has a wide variety of vegetables and can also saute them for you if you’d like. They also have many dressing options from Caesar and Ranch to spicy and BBQ sauces. Their Greek cucumber Tzatziki salad dressing is good and pretty light that many vegetarians may like.

The staff at Pita Pit is usually very friendly. They make your food right in front of you so you know what’s in it.

Sports Editor Tomas Kassahun: Taj Mahal & Fasika In one of the most diverse campuses in California, it would seem logical to have a vast array of cultural food available.

Yet this is not the case at Fresno City College. Outside of Asian food, the college does not offer much else. Why not have mouth-watering Indian delicacies or Mediterranean sweetness? Or maybe even unique African dishes. This would fill the hungry appetite of college students and also expand the students’ appreciation of diversity.

Taj Mahal Indian restaurant, Fasika Ethiopian restaurant and Fresno’s Mediterranean Restaurant located on North Fresno Street, are a few choices that should be available on campus.

Opinion Editor Troy Pope: Dog House Grill Dog House Grill seems like the perfect fit for the Pacific Café area. The food selection seems to target college kids, and definitely focuses on meat. The location next to Save Mart Center features an outdoor patio where there is a large barbeque filled with meat.

The outdoor patio here on campus could accommodate the barbeque and attract a different clientele that currently patronizes Pacific Café. After a test, nothing seems more rewarding than a pulled-pork or steak sandwich. Dog House is the perfect for any college campus.

The Verdict Although it may seem like a pipe dream to hope for change, or new additions, we cannot give up hope that the school will realize that new and different food options can only benefit the student body. We’re not insistent on removing Pacific Café or Taher, we just think adding variety to the available menus is warranted. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

OPINION

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 11.28.2012

11

Should Disney make additional Star Wars films?

PRO

BY TROY POPE

tpope@therampageonline.com

I

n 1977, George Lucas introduced “Star Wars” to the world. It was a work of art, that reignited a form of science fiction that hadn’t been seen since “Star Trek” was canceled in 1969.

“A New Hope,” which was the first “Star Wars” film to grace American cinema, was labeled as “Episode 4,” and was a classic underdog story. It introduced characters such as, Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Princess Leia, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader. These characters quickly became household names.

Arguably, the best film in the series came next, “The Empire Strikes Back.”

It introduced new household names like Yoda, Lando Calrissian and Boba Fett.

It’s worth noting that Irvin Kershner directed “Empire,” and not George Lucas.

The film saw Vader bringing his powerful empire against Skywalker and his rebels, and quite readily out maneuvered them.

The trilogy ended with “Return of the Jedi.” Although the film ends with the glorious defeat of the evil empire, it was also the beginning of George Lucas’ descent into madness.

That film had one fatal flaw. His name was Wicket. Wicket is an Ewok, and Ewoks moved “Star Wars” away from its gritty and violent atmosphere, and turned the rebels heroic struggle for independence and freedom into a kids movie.

Lucas’ descent progressed heavily as he released three abominations of “Star Wars’” former glory. Episodes One, Two and Three were Lucas’ vision of the franchise’s origin, and they were awful.

Besides the makeover Lucas gave to “Star Wars’” cherished backstory, he also introduced another fatal flaw into the prequel-trilogy that began with “The Phantom Menace”, Jar Jar Binks.

Binks was more childish than his Ewok predecessors, and far more obnoxious and intrusive.

Lucas’ vision for the long-anticipated character of Anakin Skywalker, was a child who was way too “happy-golucky” to be a slave headed toward his inevitable destiny as a sith lord, aka dark jedi.

The film was full of silly one-liners from Skywalker and Binks that would set the tone of the garbage to come.

“Now this is podracing” makes

every loyal fan of “Star Wars” want to vomit in disgust. Skywalker’s script was a failure on Lucas’ part who had 20 years to figure him out.

With the release of “Attack of the Clones” and “Revenge of the Sith,” Lucas seemed to go out of his way to screw up something that could have easily been classic filmmaking. The introduction of the clone wars, which had been a part of “Star Wars” history since Luke Skywalker first met Obi-Wan Kenobi, was structured horribly and seemed last minute.

Both films had people hating Anakin Skywalker, not because he was evil, but because he was annoying and people were mad at George Lucas for ruining their childhood.

There is a ray of hope.

Lucas isn’t dead and buried, but his oversight of “Star Wars” is. Thankfully, Disney recently purchased Lucasarts for $4.1 billion, and announced the release of another trilogy starting with “Episode 7” in 2015.

In 1983, “Star Wars” ended on a high note with “Return of the Jedi,” despite the incursions of the Ewoks. Lucas took that glory and burned it to the ground with his re-imagined prequel trilogy.

The last memory we have of “Star Wars” is a woman dying while birthing Luke and Leia, because she “lost the will to live.” Lucas deserves to be slapped for punishing the world with his senile visions.

D i s ney, however, is fresh off of “The Avengers,” which was well constructed and made over $1.5 billion worldwide.

Although we shouldn’t hope for an “ Av e n g e r s ” style film, we can hope for greatness.

Lawrence Kasdan, Michael Arndt and Simon Kinberg have reportedly signed on to write screenplays for the new Disney-released “Star Wars” sequel trilogy.

Arndt is the screenwriter responsible for “Little Miss Sunshine” and “Toy Story 3.”

Kinberg is hit and miss with his work; he wrote garbage like “Jumper”, but he also wrote “X-Men: First Class”, which is epic.

Kasdan alone gives fanboys a reason to cheer. Kasdan wrote “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi”.

Disney has the resources, talent and ability to take on this fallen hero called “Star Wars.”

Disney has the challenge of living up to the original trilogy, but it has the advantage of building off a trilogy that only leaves room for improvement.

Although it will be difficult, Disney can only do better than George Lucas.

l TWITTER.COM/DARKTROY

CON

BY AKEEM SPEARMAN

aspearman@therampageonline.com

T

he horrendous endeavor of creating another “Star Wars” trilogy would be akin to adding a few brush strokes to Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa or Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel yet that is exactly what Disney plans to do.

Disney’s recent acquisition of Lucasfilm, at a mere cost of $4 billion, is going to turn the “Star Wars” franchise into a cash cow that Disney is going to milk dry with their soulless, decrepit hands.

M u c h like fairy tale princesses and Mickey Mouse memorabilia, it seems that Disney excels at one thing: excessive marketing that inundates the populace with overpriced products and attractions.

The inevitable exploitation of the franchise was made clear once it was announced that another film is scheduled to be released in 2015. Any true fan would realize that this is a terrible idea that could potentially undermine everything that George Lucas has created.

Lucas, the creator and pioneer of the “Star Wars” universe, has been reduced to the role of executive producer instead of being at the direct forefront of the series.

Lucas might not be the best writer, but his visionary brilliance behind creating “Star Wars” was part of its success.

Furthermore, the series itself becomes more degenerative with each set of films that get released. This is evident by the release of the widely panned prequel trilogy which gave audiences famed characters such as Jar Jar Binks and a whiny twelve-year-old version of the once fearsome Darth Vader.

Should fans sit through another trilogy only to be disappointed by a film riddled with unnecessary plot additions devised to shoehorn segments into an already completed tale?

Many have false hope with the induction of one of the writers for the praised Episode V as a part of the newest film, but in actuality the success of Episode V was due mostly to Lucas’ USC film teacher Irvin Kershner who focused on character development. Much credit is somehow given to writer Lawrence Kasden, a man who also wrote the poorly received films “The Bodyguard”, “Dreamcatcher” and “Wyatt Earp”.

Some would present this as great news, but that silly notion is held by ‘fans’ only desperate for more films at whatever the cost. The storyline has been told and brought full circle.

The viewers have witnessed Lucas explain the rise and the fall of the Jedi Order. There is nothing else to see unless the studio wants to delve into the expanded universe outlined in the books.

Conversely, Disney can simply release an action film perverted of any storyline which would only further trivialize the series, especially since Disney is geared towards marketable products.

This is suitable for the current low standard of Hollywood though with its recent disgraces and rehashed abominations.

The “Star Wars” series also hold a somewhat darker tone. A few even end with the villain prevailing over the hero. Disney has rarely tackled, as the company is quite adept at making kidfriendly films with tame action and comical albeit juvenile undertones. “Beverly Hills Chihuahua”,“Frankenweenie”, and “Brave” are prime examples. Even the overrated“Avengers” carried that tone with its corny humor, exaggerated CGI and laughable pacing.

Any direction that Disney decides to go will only appear to replicate the already existing films. If the films go forward, which is what the company planned to do with the latest movie, there is a possibility of featuring tales of the children of main characters.

This ridiculousness might have worked in the novels, but it will seem repetitive to the original trilogy once brought to screen.

Besides, the story of a young boy or girl who sets out on a journey is one that most have seen numerous times. It worked for the original series due to extraordinary special effects that were ahead of its time and also because the film was released in 1977.

Alternatively, perhaps fans of the franchise will be lucky enough to get a product much like the space film John Carter, another Disney creation that was not only vilified universally by critics but also led to the resignation of the Walt Disney’s Chairman Rich Ross.

Maybe the second time’s the charm.

The “Star Wars” universe was accompanied by an enriched story with memorable characters, layers of depth, impressive moments of action, occasional romances and messages that ring true in the minds of fans years after their release.

It is now a mere empty shell of its former self, but some fans desperately cling to that idea. The series once carried a widespread charm; a universal appeal that Disney will no doubt mold into numbingly mindless entertainment. l TWITTER.COM/ABREWERSPEARMAN

12

OPINION

11.28.2012 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

THE ZEN GUIDE TO INSENSITIVITY: SECOND CLASS CITIZENS

BY TROY POPE

tpope@therampageonline.com

Equality has been a struggle for us since the birth of our nation. It seems that there is always at least one major group that has their rights looked down upon by the masses, and is excluded or punished in some way. They are demonized-minorities; second class citizens.

America declared its independence from King George’s England in 1776 because the colonials didn’t share equal representation in their government; they had the will of the masses imposed on them through laws that they didn’t have a say in creating.

Even before that, colonials held Africans as slaves, a practice that continued for generations and was a catalyst to the American Civil War. African-Americans saw their rights limited by laws that maintained them at a “separate but equal” status, and were not permitted to take part in mainstream society until very recently in our history.

Now, we see the rights of a minority being curtailed again.

Gay-Americans do not hold equal rights in most of the United States, and many are bullied or even killed for being who they are.

Only in the last few years have some states created laws granting equal rights to gays. And only just this month, on Nov. 6, were laws put into place in some states by the voice of the majority and not a court or congress.

In most states in this country samesex marriage is not recognized, and in some cases flat out illegal.

Some feel that civil unions are

enough to satisfy the group. These people clearly aren’t aware that a civil union is not the same thing as a marriage.

Can people in civil unions file joint tax returns with their partner? Sponsor their spouse for citizenship if they are from another country? Have their union recognized by all 50 states? Get into an ambulance if their partner is taken to a hospital?

Adopt children?

Unfortunately, none of these questions can be answered “yes” 100 percent of the time, or not at all in some cases. In fact, in most states the answer is simply “no.”

These rights, however, are entitled for any heterosexual couple that decides to sign a marriage certificate.

The right that they is given as a matter of birth, is a right that is taken for granted by many, and sought after by people whose only misfortune is in not denying who they are.

Yes, a gay person could get married if they’d just marry a member of the opposite sex. Is that fair? All they’d have to do is ignore who they are and live a life of unhappiness. That’s OK, right?

Do the rights of gays diminish the rights of straights?

If two men or two women get married, does that mean you are no longer married? No. If two men or two women fall in love with each other, does that mean you stop loving your significant other? No. If a gay couple moves in next door to you, does that mean the manner in which you conduct yourself inside your home must change? No.

Mitt Romney and the Republican Party both believe that gays should not even be allowed to enter into civil unions.

This type of rigid “right-wing” way of thinking is the reason for Romney’s defeat at the hands of President Barack Obama.

President Obama is the first sitting president to openly state that gays should be able to be married just like everyone else. The Democratice party subsequently did as well.

Problem solved right? There is now equality for everyone because Obama says he believes there should be? Wrong.

Although the president endorsed gay marriage, it is a far cry from legislation being put it into practice.

Even California, which is a Democrat-controlled state, voted to support a ban on same-sex marriage in 2008. A vote that has been struck down by two courts as unconstitutional because it limits the rights of a particular group for no other reason than tradition. It is still being appealed by Proposition 8 supporters, and will likely end up before the Supreme Court.

One of Proposition 8’s chief supporters, David Blankenhorn, has even recanted his position on the matter, realizing the ideal he was originally fighting for was, in fact, state-sanctioned discrimination.

“For me, the most important [thing] is the equal dignity of homosexual love,” said Blankenhorn, president of the New York-based Institute for American Values. “I don’t believe that opposite-sex and same-sex relationships are the same, but I do believe, with growing numbers of Americans, that the time for denigrating

or stigmatizing same-sex relationships is over. Whatever one’s definition of marriage, legally recognizing gay and lesbian couples and their children is a victory for basic fairness.”

Despite Blankenhorn’s change of heart, it has not revolutionized the way people feel about gays. One person’s change of heart does is not reflective our our hateful-human nature, nor does it correct the damage that was caused by his original hatred of people that are different than he is.

Although Blankenhorn changed his position on same-sex marriage rights, it does not change that gay marriage is not legal in California. It does not change the fact that gay marriage is outlawed in most states. It does not change the fact that unless new federal legislation is passed supporting the rights of all Americans equally, same-sex couples will be forced to remain as they are; second class citizens.

See related video here.

l TWITTER.COM/DARKTROY

Real concerns about safety on campus

BY CHAD ARMBRUSTER

carmbruster@therampageonline.com

As a concerned student at Fresno City College, I have noticed the lack of security on campus. I’m only in my first semester, but it has become apparent to me that FCC is not a safe place for students, staff and faculty.

Exterior cameras, security personnel, lighted walkways and parking lots as well as safeguarded restrooms seem to be lacking on campus.

In addition to the lack of cameras, none of the current cameras on campus align with the bike racks, leaving all bikes exposed with no protection.

Within the first month of the semester, I had a bike stolen from FCC. There was no recoverable video data of the incident. Administrative personnel said that more than 20 bikes a week were stolen from campus during the first month. To ensure that my bike would not get stolen again,

I purchased a U-lock. So far it has been left alone.

Security on campus is more of a disposition rather than a benefit. Patrolling officers are rarely seen outside of their vehicles.

Due to a lack of personnel, there is no one walking and patrolling around and through the buildings. The response time for emergency situations leaves something to be desired. There is no unified evacuation plan for students and staff.

The orange colored light bulbs in the light fixtures leave many dark spaces around campus. These areas of vulnerability expose students to risks and potential danger.

Due to the poorly lit walkways at FCC, some students feel insecure walking to and from their classes and the parking lot at night. Parking lots are dimly lit leaving students and

staff susceptible to danger.

Restrooms on campus are not monitored or patrolled.

During night classes, the restrooms are not secured for personal safety. Some restrooms are in low traffic areas on campus. This deficiency leaves students and staff defenseless whenever they use the restroom.

This campus needs more functioning security cameras, additional personnel for security patrols, better lighting and protected entryways for restrooms. If the college takes all the necessary steps, it could lower the amount of crime and theft, and the safety of students, staff and faculty would be dramatically improved. l TWITTER.COM/ARMBRUSTER_CHAD

OPINION

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 11.28.2012

13

Apple vs. Android, You Decide

BY COX ODIA

codia@therampageonline.com

The war between Apple iOS and Google Android has been going on for a long time now with Apple dominating the U.S. market in sales.

However, Android has been gaining ground recently. According to global market research firm Nielsen, “Android finally edged out Apple in early 2012, nabbing approximately 48 percent market share.”

More fuel was added to the long burning fire when Apple accused Samsung of copying some of its products and won the case.

Though it may seem like both devices operate on a similar platform, connecting their consumer as fast as possible with the most up to date technology, they are vastly different. For first time consumers of a smartphone, it is important to know the ins and outs of the latest mobile technology and what fits their needs specifically.

According to an article by Katie Nielsen on “Toptenreviews.

com”. Apple is only going to continue to expand with its present followers staying loyal especially with the demand of the recently released iPhone 5.

U n f o rtunately for all the Apple fanatics out there, they only manufacture one smartphone and that is the iPhone. There are three models available: the 4, 4s and the new iPhone 5.

Each phone has a variety of storage configurations.

The iPhone is also known for its sleek and clean face but you will see pretty much the same

interface on every iPhone model.

The iPhone 5 has 4G speeds and is arguably the fastest working phone on the market. It is much lighter than its predecessor the 4s.

Apple’s voice control

Siri is much crisper and detailed this time around.

The iPhone 5 also has a much more improved picture and video quality. But a common complaint about the new additions to the iPhone 5 is the new map, which has not been as reliable since Apple’s split from Google Maps.

It has always been debated about which company provides a wider variety of apps than the other. They both have a massive selection of apps, but the bigger difference is how the applications are downloaded

on each system. According to the Toptenreviews.com article, every app sold through the Apple app store is fully controlled by the company itself while Android has several distribution channels.

Android unveiled their latest product, the Samsung Galaxy S3, back in May which boasted a 4.8 inch screen. They have also launched their own music service, matching themselves head to head with Apple.

I can proudly say that I am an addict of Apple. I have been a consumer of the iPhone since Steve Jobs introduced the original iPhone. I recently purchased the new iPhone 5 and in my opinion, it is the best phone ever assembled. I love how light and thin the phone is and now that it has 4G accessibility, it is a much faster phone than ever before. I really cannot go anywhere without it and I assure you cannot go wrong with this purchase. l TWITTER.COM/COXTHAONE

Remember the reason for the season

BY KAITLIN REGAIN

kregan@therampageonline.com

The holiday season kicked off with a bang on Friday. The notorious Black Friday had customers waiting in line for days just to be a part of the “Christmas Deals”. It is at this point that we must ask ourselves: Where have we gone wrong?

Consumerism thrives on the holiday season because of the gift giving obligations that we embrace.

Why? What has made money and gifts so important to this society?

In Dr. Seuss’s “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” the Grinch believes that the meaning of Christmas lies in the gifts that line the underside of every tree. Much to the Grinch’s dismay, Christmas came even after he attempted to steal it from Whoville.

“It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags!” said the Grinch.

Now, what can we learn from a children’s book?

We can learn that there are more important things than presents, deals and gadgets. It is about being with those we love and cherish. That is what matters throughout the season.

Also, Christmas itself has become a gift-a-thon for those who don’t celebrate it as a religion. It has lost its meaning in general. As we decorate our homes and consume all that we can, there is more to be thought about.

What about those who have nothing and no one for the holidays? It is easy to turn away from such an unpleasant reality but why do we ignore the less fortunate?

The argument can be made donations to shelters and the Salvation Army supplement the difference but that is not entirely true.

There are still far too many people going without food and shelter for the holidays while the rest of us are warm and complaining about how we do not have an iPad. To those that volunteer at shelters and to those that donate, I offer my applause. As a society we need to stand up together to face poverty and what better time to do so than during the holidays?

If we can come together to boost mere donations throughout the season, we can come together to take on the issue as a whole. It is time to end the superficial understanding of Christmas, for those that celebrate it, and the holidays for others.

When doing your holiday shopping this year I urge you to consider those less fortunate. I urge you to take on an air of responsibility for bettering one person’s life a day. Whether you make a donation, sit down and talk to the less fortunate or volunteer, a difference is being made.

Organize groups of friends and family to help

spread the cheer. Make your activity one that defines what it means to celebrate Christmas in the truest sense. Share that feeling not just with those around you but also those without the means that you have.

As students we don’t have much but we do have our minds. We can get creative about ways to help others and I know that we can make a difference this year. Extend your heart and hands to those around you to realize what the Grinch did. Christmas doesn’t come in a bag. l TWITTER.COM/K_C_REGAN

14

SPORTS

BY CARL TURPIN

cturpin@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College men’s soccer team suffered a loss by way of penalty kicks in the second round of the Northern California Regional playoffs.

The Rams’ were trailing Cabrillo College by one goal at 90 minutes before Eligio Morales took the game into overtime with a 93rd minute injury time equalizer. The teams played an additional 30 minutes but they could not be separated.

Fresno, seeded No.5 in the northern region, were expected to go through into the next round, but Cabrillo College, seeded No. 13, had already caused an upset when they defeated No. 4 ranked Santa Rosa in the previous round.

Cabrillo College started off brightly, but they were restricted to two early shots from distance, neither of them troubled the Rams’ goalkeeper.

Fresno took a while longer to settle, but started to create a few chances. Duce Bell headed over from a corner kick and Morales shot wide within the first ten minutes.

The first half was a tight game, the best chances for both teams came from set pieces. Cabrillo had free kicks in dangerous positions but twice the Rams’ wall did its job and blocked shots. Adrian Plascencia delivered some

11.28.2012 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

Rams come up short in a thriller

dangerous corners, but the Rams just couldn’t direct the ball into the goal.

The Rams created plenty of chances to go ahead in the second half, but it was Cabrillo who took the lead against the run of play. The ball was passed infield from the left and the Cabrillo attacker scuffed a shot which fell into the path of a teammate on the right who drove the ball hard and low underneath the goalkeeper.

Frustrations grew, but the Rams’ didn’t give up. Even at one goal down so late in the game, goalkeeper Cesar Hernandez was confident there would be a goal to celebrate.

“We always had faith in our attackers,” he said.

In stoppage time, Morales skipped past defenders on the right and shot the ball at near post, to beat the Cabrillo goalkeeper and take the game into overtime.

The Rams had chances to score near the end of overtime, but the game would be decided on what Paolo Carbone, head coach of Cabrillo described as “a lottery.” Carbone was proud of how his team reacted.

“Getting scored against in the last minute, most other teams would put their heads down…they found an extra motivation to stick together as a group and go to penalty kicks and win,” he said.

Eric Solberg, head coach for the Rams was disappointed with the game.

“We didn’t play well, we never got going,” he said. “I thought it was one of our worst games of the year in terms of what was at stake and our energy level.”

Bell agreed. “We had no energy at all….we just weren’t ready to play,” he said.

Cesar Hernandez felt that the Rams were not focusing on Cabrillo.

“We weren’t living in the moment,” he said. “We were looking past them.”

Hernandez will be returning as a sophomore next season and he aims to improve on his first season. He plans on “not taking teams for granted” when the Rams go into games believing they will win.

James Bitter, Rams defender, felt there was room for improvement.

“We played fine, but you can’t play fine in the playoffs,” he said. “You have to play a lot better than that.”

Solberg has to look to next season now.

“We’ve got to bring the guys back, recruit some more and keep trying to grow,” he said.

“As far as this season goes, it was a solid year, nothing more than that.”

Photo by Abel Cortez. FCC goalkeeper Cesar Hernandez looks on l TWITTER.COM/UKCARL54

as Cabrillo College celebrates a win and a trip to the championship.

Women’s soccer season ends against Sierra

BY TOMAS KASSAHUN

tkassahun@therampageonline.com

A match that began with promise ended up sour for the Fresno City College women’s soccer team. The Rams faced the Sierra College Wolverines in the

third round of the Northern California Regional playoffs and took the lead in the 19th minute when Sara Reed found sophomore midfielder Emily Hinson for the score.

Energized by the goal, the Rams stepped up their defense and held Sierra College scoreless

for the rest of the half.

But then came the second half and it was the Wolverines’ turn to celebrate.

In the 51st minute, FCC keeper Jasmine Cordova blocked the shot but Miani Mahannah found the rebound and scored the header to tie the game at 1-1.

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Mahannah didn’t stop there.

In the 81st minute she received the ball from Caroline Stromick to score her second goal of the game and give Sierra a 2-1 lead.

With the home crowd urging them on, the Rams were awarded a corner in stoppage time. But the cross fell harmlessly into the hands of the keeper and the Wolverines stormed the field in celebration of their trip to the state championship.

“We kept battling and we were hoping to get one in but it didn’t quite work out,” said freshman forward Jenna Thomason.

“We did well on defense but a couple slipped in.”

Thomason led the Rams this season with 17 goals and 13 assists.

“It was a pleasure to work with all the sophomores and the freshmen this year. I can’t wait till next year,” she said.

The key for Sierra College was to put more pressure on the Rams.

“At halftime we talked about putting them under more pressure,” said Sierra College head coach Jason Gantt. “We started putting more pressure up high and both goals came from putting pressure.”

The Wolverines defense also did its job in the second half.

”Our defense was unreal,” said Gantt. “Our back four won the game for us.”

Mahannah was impressed with how her team never gave up.

“We knew that once they scored, it wasn’t the end of it,” said Mahannah. “At the beginning of the game, I wasn’t happy because we got excited with every chance we got but towards the end we kept our composure and we started working together.“ In addition to Mahannah’s two goals, Sierra College took advantage of a strong performance from the midfielders.

“We came out flat and gave them too much space but we were going to keep fighting and win,” said midfielder Giuliani Grana. ”The game plan was to pressure them and just know that they are beatable.“ Though it was a tough loss for the Rams, head coach Oliver Germond had a lot to be proud of.

“We lost nine of our starters from last year. We didn’t know what to expect,” said Germond. “ We started the season 1-3 so to get this far and be the No.1 seed is a great achievement. I’m proud of what we have done.” l TWITTER.COM/THERAMPAGEGUY

SPORTS

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 11.28.2012

CROSS COUNTRY TEAM FINISHES STRONG

15

BY COX ODIA

codia@therampageonline.com

Photo by Brendan Raley. Sophomore runner Germay Tesfai earned AllAmerican honors in his last race at FCC.

Scoreboard

Event

Football State Center Bowl

l TWITTER.COM/COXTHAONE

Score

Butte College-31 FCC-17

Transferring? finish school Your WaY!

FCC 59 Miramar- 57

Santa Rosa-76 FCC-70

© 2012 National University 10591

Women’s Basketball @Merced Nov.17

feeling good with one mile to go, that I could smash my personal record, I was very happy,” said Tesfai.

With Tesfai’s career at Fresno City College now over, he is looking forward to his future at a higher level.

“I want to continue my career as a student athlete at the university level and reach my full potential,” said Tesfai.

In the women’s race, the Rams placed 26th in overall standings with runners Sandra Navarro and Megan Gerbrandt finishing with an identical time of 20:54, freshman Nora Cantor finished with a time of 21:13, Rebeckah Madison finished with a time of 22:14 and Kayla Burnett capped of a solid afternoon with a time of 26:50.

Cross country head coach Gary Bluth was very happy with the team’s overall performance this year.

“I was very happy with our results, the fact that both teams qualified for the state championships and almost all of the kids ran lifetime bests at the meet,” said Bluth. “The key factor was Germay Tesfai not only ran his fastest time on the course by 25 seconds, but he placed tenth overall which kept him ranked No. 2 in the north and earned him All-American honors.”

Bluth was very proud of his team’s endurance and dedication throughout the season.

“The only thing you can ask for is for an athlete to do their best,” said Bluth. “When they do that regardless of what place they come in, you have to be happy with their results, and they competed extremely well.”

NATIoNAl UNIVersIT y®

Wrestling FCC - 34 State Dual Mount Meet San Antonio - 12 Championship Men’s Basketball Palomar Tournament

The Fresno City College cross country team capped off their season with a solid performance at the California Community College Cross Country Championships on Nov. 17.

Matt Airlola from American River finished first place overall in the men’s four mile race while Katie Castro from De Anza took first place in the women’s race.

Orange Coast took first place overall in team scores for the women’s teams with a time of 1:34:52 and in the men’s race American River College placed first in team scores with a time of 1:43:31.

For the Rams, the men took 14th place overall in the meet highlighted by a 10th place finish from sophomore runner Germay Tesfai, who set a personal record and earned All-American honors while fighting a cold.

“I got really sick before. I felt a little discouraged, but by race day I felt better and I was aiming for top 14 which would earn me All-American honors. I ended up taking tenth place and overcame my sickness,” said Tesfai.

Freshman Marty Rowell finished with a personal record time of 21:23 and Juan Navia finished with a time of 24:04:29, Ben Cabrera finished close after with a time of 22:05:65, freshman Scott Ramirez finished with a time of 23:42:63, freshman Garret Sons finished with a 23:53 time and sophomore Martin Ramirez finished with a time of 23:33.

Tesfai was very pleased with the teams overall performance and their individual personal records.

“Most of the guys PR’d so we all did great as a whole. I knew if I was

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16

SPORTS

11.28.2012 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

SCHULTE LEADS RAMS BACK TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

BY PABEL LOPEZ

plopez@therampageonline.com

The Fresno City College women’s Volleyball defeated Sierra in five games on Tuesday night to advance to the state championships.

Fresno City College came into the match with a record of 25-1 while the Sierra Wolverines had a record of 236.

“That’s an amazing team on the other side. We knew that coming in,” said Schulte about the Sierra wolverines.

FCC won the first game by the score of 25-22 but lost the second and third games.

This was the first time in the playoffs that the volleyball team had lost a game.

The Rams faced elimination in the fourth set but were able to hold off the Wolverines and win the game by the score of 26-24. The final game had the entire crowd in the gym on their feet as FCC pulled out the victory with a score of 15-13.

“It was exactly what we expected it to be. We came into practice saying it could be three (sets), it could be five (sets),” said Schulte.

FCC relied heavily on freshman Morgan Dose who had 15 kills and Sophomore Courtney Thacker who had

50 assists in the game. Mckenzie Buchanan finished the game with 22 digs.

This concludes a three game stretch for the Rams in which they hosted playoff teams as the No. 1 seed. The Rams first playoff game came against Diablo Valley.

Though the Rams felt they underestimated their opponent in that match, they still came away with a victory in three games.

After the game against Diablo Valley, FCC player Courtney Thacker said “this game was not our best. We were kind of slow. I think because they were seeded No.16 and we were No.1, we came in kind of slow.”

Thacker finished with 17 assists against Diablo Valley.

Central Valley Conference MVP Toni Murphy thought the team needed a “better mindset” after their first playoff game.

She said the team needed “more talking, covering more and just being aggressive on the court.”

The second round saw the Rams come in more prepared than the week before and take on the Gavilan Rams in a game that ended in three sets but was a constant battle throughout.

The scores of the three games were 25-16, 25-23 and 25-23.

Sophomore Toni Murphy

had ten kills and ten digs while Madison Rhinehart had 8 kills and 6 digs.

Following the Saturday night game against Gavilan, Shulte said “We didn’t do a whole lot in particular but we talked about the way we played on Tuesday, which wasn’t going to be enough to get where we want to be in the end. I don’t think we played as crisp and clean as we could have but it was definitely an improvement over Tuesday.”

Following the Gavilan game, Schulte said “In playoff time you always have to expect them (the games) to be close, for sure, so to be done in three is a good sign for us so we can go home and rest up.”

The Rams will now move on to the state championships at Chabot College in Fullerton.

This is a return to the state championship for Schulte, who last took the Rams to the state championship in 2008.

Schulte said the team is ready to face any opponent.

“We’re ready for it. We’re looking forward to it,” said Schulte.

“We deserve the shot.

We’ve earned the opportunity to be there and I’m expecting good Photo by Paul Schlesinger. Fresno City College volleyball outstuff from us when we get there.” side hitter Toni Murphy #6 tries to toss the ball over Sierra College Wolverines setter Madi Macauley #1 during their game last night.

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