Spring 2013 Issue 4

MARCH 13, 2013

8 12

Volume CXXIV Issue 4

FREE

RAMPAGE

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

Sexploration with Troy and Matthew

In this edition of Sexploration with Troy and Matthew, the boys tackle the difficult question of whether or not having a friend with benefits is permissible when you’re not in a relationship.

Muslim students reach out

4

The Muslim Students Association aims to be open and approachable to all students.

Breaking the stereotype and chaning assumptions has become a group effort.

KENNEDY CENTER HONORS STUDENT

Women’s Basketball

The Fresno City College women’s basketball team returned to the final four for the second year in a row with a win over Sierra College on Saturday night. The final four will be held on March 16-17 in Sacramento.

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Singers bring world music to OAB

The Fresno City College Symphonic Choir and City Singers, along with special guest artists, showcase diversity through a selection of music from around the world.

BY KEVYNN GOMEZ

kgomez@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College student Mohammad Shehata recently won a spot to participate in the national competition for the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.

In April, Shehata will be travelling to Washington, D.C to compete as a nominee for Region 8.

The KCACTF is an annual nationwide competition uniting college students and their passion for theatre arts. Beginning in 1969, the annual festival holds competitions at state, regional and national levels to celebrate the hard work, talent, and creativity of college students and the art form they love.

Divided into eight distinct regions spanning the United States, Shehata competed in Region 8 which comprises Fresno along with southern California, southern Nevada, Arizona, Utah and Hawaii.

Several other FCC students displayed their talent at the KCACTF last month as well. Working in teams of two for the Irene Ryan Acting Competition, nine students progressed to the semi-final round of the competition- the largest number of students ever for FCC. Shehata won in the O’Neill Critics Institute spot for his written cril SEE KCACTF ON PAGE 2

Photo by Michael Monroy. Students representing colleges throughout California march to the state capital building on March 4 to demand reduced fees, lower loan rates, cheaper textbooks, more full-time counselors and faculty and additional classes. l SEE MARCH ON PAGE 3

SCCC Foundation raises $120k at Safari Bash

BY PATRICK FORREST

pforrest@therampageonline.com

The ninth annual Renaissance Feast for Scholars brought a taste of Africa to the Fresno City College library on March 9.

The event, sponsored by the State Center Community College Foundation, raised $120,000 to fund scholarships for students.

The audience was entertained by drums while they ate dinner and participated in live and silent auctions.

Phil Larson, member of the SCCC foundation board, was auctioneer for the live auction in the dining room, which was transformed into a safari setting with fake tigers and giraffes.

“Everyone involved with this does a great job,” said Patrick Stumpf, member of the Willow International Renaissance Feast Committee.

The auctions were not the only

way that money was raised; guests and sponsors donated generously to the foundation.

“We have a lot of community members who are very generous and who really believe in providing opportunities for the children of the community to receive an education,” said State Center Community College District Chancellor Deborah Blue.

The foundation exceeded its goal of raising $100,000. At the end of the evening, the district raised a total of $120,000 for student scholarships.

“All the donations are really up to the donors,” said Michael White, Reedley College president. “They can target sites whether it be Reedley, Madera, Fresno City or Oakhurst, they can decide where their money goes.”

The donated money creates opportunities for college education for many who may not otherwise have it.

While the event was festive and entertaining, it was deeply rooted in the great cause of education.

“I think it means a lot to the people in the community to be able to come out to a party and give money for scholarships,” said Herbert. “It’s not just a party to have a party, it actually has a meaning.”

And the theme of education for all was felt throughout the night.

“Sometimes I don’t think that people realize the great things that our alumni are doing in the community,” said Herbert. “We fuel the workforce; a lot of them come from either Fresno City College or Reedley, and you’ll even see them move on to other places.”

This commitment to excellence in education was showcased to potential donors throughout the evening “When there’s a student that you know has that passion and that drive

to be successful if you can help them with one book or with one class or one book,” said Herbert, “anyone who was in this room would do that.”

Former FCC student Danielle Burt addressed the audience, telling donors that their funds do not go unappreciated or unused.

“In my three years here, I received close to a dozen scholarships from benefactors here,” Burt said. “So, I love these people very much.”

The community once again come through for the students of the district.

“They know that our future, not only as a school but as a society, depends on the students that we serve, so they give, and they give generous,” said Chancellor Blue. “And they believe in supporting students in their efforts for a higher education.” l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8

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NEWS

Rampage Staff

03.13.2013

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

“How has the perception of women changed?”

BY AKEEM SPEARMAN

PHOTOS BY VICTOR APARICIO

aspearman@therampageonline.com

vaparicio@therampageonline.com

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

Susana Sosa Art History Instructor

Natalie Culver-Dockings Dean of Instruction, Workforce Development

Eve Taylor French Instructor

“The perception of women has changed, I think, in so many different ways. In the later part of the 20th century and the early part of the 21st century , women’s creative abilities have been increasingly celebrated. I have been talking to my classes about how there were very few women artist and we hardly knew their names. Now we have some really important figures reshaping the world of art and culture as writers and filmmakers. It’s much more open although there are still issues, problems and opportunities that men have. There are still ceilings.

Overall, I think there’s an increased sense of independence and creativity.”

“I’ve been in education for 12 years. Education Administration is typically a male-dominated field and I think that as time has gone on there have been more women graduating from doctoral programs. For me, as a woman, to be able to be involved with the programs such as maintenance mechanic, the fire academy, the police academy then we could increase the number of women going into those fields so it helps. The glass ceiling still exists, but I haven’t been personally affected by it. I have been given a lot of opportunities.”

“I believe that the perception of women has basically gone from being that of a person whose role is to support the man and help him with his endeavors to be someone who contributes to society and not have to be someone’s help-mate. Women are now in a similar position that men used to solely hold.”

KCACTF tique of theatre productions. The O’Neill Critics Institute was created to give college students interested in art criticism an opportunity to hone their skills and express their views and knowledge on theatre art in a specific, written form.

Shehata, along with the other FCC students, competed against other college and graduate students.

He was nominated for the Irene Ryan Acting competition for his role in FCC’s production of “Maritius” last semester, directed by Chuck Erven.

Shehata chose to apply for the O’Neill Critics Institute competition in which he won as the semi finalist.

Although being the only FCC student to move on to the finals in Washington, D.C., Shehata admits that the experience and knowledge he gained at the KCACTF is what he

l TWITTER.COM/ABSPEARMAN l TWITTER.COM/VICTORKID

l CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 appreciates most.

“Honestly though, the best part of the experience was the workshops because you learned a lot , first of all, but second of all it was just very, very inspiring,” he said.

Theatre Arts instructor Debbi Shapazian knows Shehata well. As the instructor who suggested Mohammad apply for the O’Neill Critics Institute to partake in the theatre criticism competition, she plays a role in his success at this year’s KCACTF. “He’s really a good, bright student. I think he’s going to do really well whatever he chooses to do,” she said.

For a FCC student only in their second semester of college, an opportunity to compete in a national theatre festival, potentially earn scholarships and collaborate with talented professionals in a dynamic, bustling city is a

feat seldom experienced.

Although the KCACTF finals do not take place until April 15, Shehata has learned much in a brief span of time.

“I think the one thing that I personally took away from it was the idea of courage. That you as a person are not supposed to filter out how you feel about something,” he said. “It’s about knowing what you’re saying ... saying the truth and having no fear in saying it, and obviously in order to do that you have to be able to write,” Shehata states.

So far, Mohammad has proven to both his instructors, himself and the judges at the KCACTF semifinals that he is more than capable of speaking the truth and writing about it in his theatre criticism. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Tip Line: 559.442.8263

Storytelling Festival 3/13 6-7:15 p.m.

The Fresno Storytelling Festival will be held in Fresno City College’s OAB Auditorium.

Entrance is free.

KIDmunity Music 3/13 7 p.m.

KIDmunity and FCC are working together to provide after-school music for K-6 kids.

The cost is $60 and the event will be held in the Recital Hall MS-132. It is recommended to register in advance but there will be open registration during the first session.

FCC Concert Band 3/13 7:30 p.m.

The FCC Cocert Band will be performing in the FCC Main Theatre. Admission is $8 for general admission and $6 for students, seniors, FCC staff.

NEWS

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 03.13.2013

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STUDENTS MARCH FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

BY COLBY TIBBET

ctibbet@therampageonline.com

Students gathered on March 4 in Sacramento for the annually held “March in March” rally, where more than 5,000 students from around California unified seeking education reform from state legislation.

Students of California State Universities, community colleges and Universities of California, peacefully marched over one mile to the steps of the state capital, to rallied together to promote a change in our educations systems. Some were asking for tuition decreases, a stop on bills that would set a 90-unit cap on students in community colleges, or what actions our policy makers are taking with Prop 30, which passed last year.

The march was met with guest speakers including California Senator Noreen Evans, American Civil Liberties Union member Tiffany Wok. Each speaker took a different variation of the stance that California’s education policy must be changed. The speakers also emphasized the need for themselves and students to continue the fight for education policy reform.

Following the speeches, groups of students went inside the state capital, to lobby and pursue legislators and officials into further hearing their cause.

BY VICTOR APARICIO

vaparicio@therampageonline.com

Spring Break is right around the corner. Take a look at the top five ways to spend Spring Break.

BY KAYLA VALENZUELA

kvalenzuela@therampageonline.com

Illustration by Adan De la Cerda

Microsoft and Sony throw down for the attention of gamers everywhere. Which one will prevail and which one will be found wanting?

Illustration by Lauren Baker

Illustration by Adan De la Cerda

Photos by Michael Monroy and Darlene Wendels.

Synthetic marijuana is becoming popular in society despite the harmful side effects and legality.

BY HEATHER JAMIESON-BROWN

hjamieson-brown@therampageonline.com

BEYOND THE PRINT THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

4

NEWS

Muslim students reach out

03.13.2013

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

BY PATRICK FORREST

pforrest@therampageonline.com

The Fresno City College Muslim Student Association is holding an outreach event every Monday from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. inside the Senate Chambers of the Student Center.

The meetings are meant to show the truth inside of Islam.

“The reason we even have a club, called MSA is so that we can clear up some common misconceptions about Islam,” said MSA President Afrah Hauter.

According to the group’s vice president Ashwaq Mohamed they do have misconceptions to clear, from the meaning of hijab or jihad to the difference between Islam, Muslim, arab and Arabic.

“We are here for you, we aren’t here to push our religion on you only to help you understand it,” said MSA member Lena Hauter. “The media doesn’t do a good job, they only show it in the most negative way.”

And the way it is shown has affected the way that people are viewed, even as they walk through the streets.

According to both Hauter and Mohamed, many club members are born

Photo by Taze Raney. Brian Rutishauser, faculty adviser, Afah Hauter, president of Muslim Student Association and group members discuss the next Club Rush on March 11.

“We want people to know who we really are.”

-Afrah Hauter MSA President

aren’t even from here, but I was born and raised here and have never even seen any Middle Eastern country.”

The group plans to educate the college through a series of small lectures on topics such as the different cultures of the many Arab countries as well as the reasons behind and the process of Muslim prayers. “ There are a lot of things that we talk about that we do in Islam, people will PROMISE YOURSELF SUCCESS say ‘we do that too,’” Muhamed said. “We always look for the differences instead OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, MARCH 23 AT 10 A.M. of the similarities, Receive detailed information about our many programs, and find the answers and we have so many similarities that I hope to all of your education questions in one place. this brings it out to At the open house, you can: people.”

• Speak with faculty and admissions staff The members of • Tour our campus in Fresno this club are also at• Learn about financial aid options and scholarships tempting to be f lagbearers for Islam on Our campus in Fresno offers programs in: the FCC campus.

• Business and Management “We want peo• Education ple to ask us ques• Engineering, Technology, and Media tions,” said Hauter.

• Health and Human Services “ We would much • Liberal Arts and Sciences rather people ask us these questions, than ask other people and Saturday, March 23 at 10 a.m. maybe get wrong inFresno Campus formation.”

20 East River Park Place West MSA is also in the process of planFresno, CA 93720 ning an event for April that will, according to both the president and vice-president, bring NATIONAL UNIVERSITY some togetherness between Muslims and RSVP today at www.nu.edu/openhouses or call 800.NAT.UNIV non-Muslims.

“Hopefully this Application fee will be waived for attendees.

A Nonprofit University Accredited by WASC event will bring all stuAn Affiliate of The National University System dents a little bit closer and raised here and only a small percentage have actually been to Arab countries.

“Some people even tend to think that we don’t even speak the language,” said Mohamed. “Just because we dress like this people, tend to think that we

© 2013 National University 12145

N AT I O N A L

U N I V E R S I T Y

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to Arabs and Muslims,” said Hauter.

“We would love to introduce people to some culture dances or fashion, so that people can realize that its just not all about religion there is some other things there too.”

In past semesters members of the MSA would speak at sociology classes and take questions. These questions would cover a wide array of topics from why Muslim women cover to how they felt after 9/11.

“A lot of people were surprised to hear that we felt the same way [after 9/11],” said Mohamed. “We were angry, we were so upset that that’s what they did and that they tried to portray it as ‘this is the religion and that is why we did it’, but no it is not the religion.

That’s not what Muslims do.”

And many Muslims have had different experiences since 9/11.

“My family came here about four or five months after 9/11 and it was bad,” said Hauter. “We stayed almost a whole year just inside the house and really didn’t leave because we were all scared.”

Although not every post 9/11 experience was negative.

“There were some people that gave us some support,” said Mohamed.

“I was in a grocery store and there were a lot of people who were mumbling ‘look at the terrorist.’”

He continued, “But there was one older lady who came over and told us ‘ignore what they’re saying they’re just ignorant don’t worry things will get better’ and they have.”

But the purpose of the MSA is to attempt to give people a new face of Islam and Muslims, other than the one shown in the mainstream media.

“There are all kinds of different stories, which is why we are here with the MSA,” said Hauter. ”But we want people to know who we really are. I could be your best friend or your sister, we could be really close as long as we don’t let that one thing get in the way” The club is going through a process of changing as its current leaders are all preparing to either transfer or graduate.

“What I hope to see is that there is still some desire to carry on the MSA,” said Hauter “There will be freshman who will come in and they may need the help of this club to understand what the religion is all about.” l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 03.13.2013

A&E

5

COMMUNITY BAND EMBRACES MUSICIANS

BY KAITLIN REGAN

kregan@therampageonline.com

The Fresno Community Concert Band was created in 1993 to provide musical opportunities to adult musicians.

The concept of the band took a full year to come to life and when it did, the response was larger than anticipated.

“We simply put out a bulletin that said ‘We’re forming a band, come join us, figuring, we’d get 12-15 people show up and 35 people showed up,” said Robert Nielsen, FCCB conductor and part-time instructor at Fresno City College. “It’s just grown since then and we now have close to 80 members.”

The band’s size has become an issue when performing in venues such as the Tower Theatre. Since there is not enough room to add each player that wishes to become a part of the band, the FCCB has begun screening the players.

“Several years back we had to stop adding members because we were playing concerts in the Tower Theatre and the stage is not big enough,” said Nielsen. “So now when we add players they are strong players, very strong players. Not just someone off the street.”

The caliber of the players involved in the band has increased greatly over the years as the screening process has been implemented.

Many of the players are retirees that

are there for their own enjoyment and just to get a chance to embrace music.

“It is an adult concert band that was formed to provide performance opportunities for musicians after high school or college,” said Nielsen.

Instructors on campus have been featured in the band through various concerts and performances.

It has been a way to include the campus faculty since the FCCB is housed here at FCC. “Mr. [Dale] Engstrom has guest conducted. Mr. [Larry] Honda has helped us out in the woodwind section on just about any instrument we want,” said Nielsen. “City College faculty don’t usually play but we generally try to include them since we are pretty much housed here.”

Engstrom, brass and concert band instructor, describes his experience with the FCCB as something that can be felt by the surrounding community.

“I have guest conducted the FCCB a few times. It was a real joy because I know so many of the members and it’s a really great band. Director Bob Nielsen has done a great job in raising the level of this group,” said Engstrom. “They are performing difficult music while keeping a handle on the entertainment value. It’s a great ensemble that this community can be proud of.”

With members of the band being in various stages of life and from the

surrounding community, the audience gets a glimpse at the diversity of the band in general.

People from all walks of life come together to share their enthusiasm for music.

“The audience finds this interesting. There’s a truck driver in the tuba section but right next to him is a structural engineer,” said Nielsen.

M u s i c , Photo by Taze Raney. Robert Nielsen, conductor of the for Nielsen, Fresno Community Concert Band. The band is scheduled to is always ful- perform on March 17 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. filling but there is something about That’s the most fulfilling thing,” said the band that has him coming back Nielsen. “They are there because they year after year. The group of people want to be there and they put up with and the dedication that each person conductors harassing them because shows offers a sense of satisfaction. they want it to sound better.”

“This is an incredibly wonderThe FCCB’s next performance ful group of people. They all have will be on March 17 at 3 p.m. and 7 day jobs or they are retired so this p.m. in the FCC Theatre. is something that they do by choice. l TWITTER.COM/K_C_REGAN

Singers share music from around the world

Photo by Karen West. Fresno City College’s Symphonic Choir, City Singers and special guests perform songs from around the world during a concert on March 5. tudents in the ensembles agree that learning

BY JORDAN RUSSELL jrussell@therampageonline.com a variety of languages is difficult.

The Fresno City College Symphonic Choir “The language part is the hardest, because so paired with the City Singers and several guest art- many people are from different cultures, and the ists for a vocal tour of world music in their perfor- way you pronounce words [is different]. And then mance of “Trip the Light: A Concert Tour Around you have to learn this song and you have to make the World” on March 5. it right. It was very challenging,” Symphonic Choir More than 70 singers took the stage in the Old member Katrina Cherkasskikh said.

Administration Building Auditorium to perform However, the challenge does end with songs from 11 countries. The vocalists were joined learning pronunciations. by several guest instrumentalists, including FCC “I expect them to sing that language with music instructors and two FCC guitar students. recognition of what they’re saying,” Dana said.

Performing such a diverse range of song in “That’s the real challenge, not just learning the such a large group is not without its challenges. For language, but putting the meaning of language the program, singers learned a different language at the same time.” for nearly every piece they sang.

This is the eighth annual “Concert Tour “Throughout the years, we’ve probably sung Around the World” that the FCC music departin 70 languages. We try to pick a variety of them ment has held. Dana continues to incorporate and go around the world. I try to find something this event into each year’s performance schedthat challenges them, and obviously the language is ule because it provides the students with an a big thing,” said Julie Dana, director of FCC choral opportunity to embrace the many cultures ensembles. within their choir and their community.

“They represent our school, and our school represents our community. And they’re all up there together, doing their thing and learning about one another,” Dana said. “Our community is so diverse, and I think it’s important to celebrate that,” she added.

Much diversity was reflected through the inclusion of folk pieces, which introduce aspects of culture to the songs.

“It’s just fun to see what other cultures like to do; the music they listen to and the music they make,” said Cherkasskikh.

However, folk song also provides students with important lessons about the reality of life in other cultures and other times.

“It gives them history, I think, and a different way of looking at life,” said Dana. “[Some music] was all part of apartheid. People were in prison because they were black, and still they sang. Still they sang,” she added.

The opportunity to learn about one another’s cultures can prove as valuable to the students as the opportunity to expand their musical knowledge.

“It just applies to all of us and makes us feel like we’re all family,” Symphonic Choir member Elina Boginski said. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

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A&E

03.13.2013

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

PASSION FOR PIANO CHARTS FUTURE teacher would tell me what to do,” said Jaech. “Now I understand it in my head and interpret it. That understanding leads to better playing.”

On Feb. 10, Jaech had one of his most memorable recitals as he performed with professional pianist Keith Snell at FCC. “It was a Photo by Michael Monroy. Alex Jaech practices the piano on March 8. great experience playing with Keith Snell. I played a piece I have

BY TOMAS KASSAHUN tkassahun@therampageonline.com been working on for over a year,” said Jaech. “I only Alex Jaech found his lifelong passion at the had my teacher’s opinion on it till now so it’s nice age of 4. to get a fresh perspective from someone who is an Jaech’s mother, who started taking piano les- excellent teacher and some who is well respected. sons when her son was only a toddler, shared her He told me some things I wouldn’t normally hear newfound hobby with Jaech and his two siblings. from my normal teacher.”

While Jaech’s brother and sister had to be But it wasn’t the first time Jaech had perpushed to play the piano, Jaech couldn’t be separated formed in front of a large crowd. As a senior in from the instrument. high school, Jaech rented out a church so he could “When I felt like I was good at the piano, I perform in front of his family and friends. started to enjoy it. I would just do it on my own,” “It was a once in a lifetime thing. I got all my said Jaech. family and friends together to show them the skills Today, Jaech is in his second semester at I have learned and all the hard work I have put in,” Fresno City College. He has found comfort in his said Jaech. piano class where is he taught by piano instructor In another unforgettable moment, Jaech Olga Quercia. played the pipe organ at the First Congressional “Quercia has taught me since I was in sixth Church of Los Angeles, which has one of the largest grade. She has given me every opportunity to suc- pipe organs in the world. He had received the honor ceed,” said Jaech. after getting first place at the Southern California Thanks to the guidance of his instructor, Jaech Junior Bach Festival. has seen himself improve over the years.

“It’s intimidating to play with a large crowd.

“In high school I would just play and hope my It’s natural to be nervous but Quercia has given me

chances to perform so I have gotten used to being nervous,” said Jaech.

He admits that he has made mistakes playing on the big stage but the joy of performing is always there. What drives Jaech is the opportunity to the study the music in depth and to recreate the music for the audience.

“Anytime you have the opportunity to learn in depth, it’s a neat experience. Playing for other people and seeing the joy people get from listening to that music is great. It’s not only a personal joy for me, but it transfers to other people as I get to share my ability,” said Jaech.

From time to time, Jaech discovers a new piece which he falls in love with. Most recently Jaech has immersed himself in Chopin’s Ballade No. 4. Additionally, Jaech’s favorite genre is romance.

His favorite composers include Beethoven, Bach and Schubert.

“I try to play all these but music is so complicated it can take years. There’s not enough time to play everything you want to play,” said Jaech.

The piano class at FCC has a recital at the end of every semester. There are also competitions but Jaech doesn’t plan on competing.

“For me, it’s about the joy I get from playing not about competing and trying to be the best,” said Jaech. “I’m not a music major. I don’t plan on being a pro but piano has always has been a part of my life and will always will be.”

As a business major, Jaech plans to get his degree from California State University Fresno.

Outside of music, Jaech is a serious Scrabble competitor. He is in fact director of the Fresno Scrabble Club and the 80th ranked Scrabble player in North America.

Still, Scrabble will never come close to the piano. Jaech is grateful for the opportunity FCC has given him and he hopes more students will get the same chance.

“FCC is a good place to try the piano. We have the greatest teacher in the world in my opinion,” said Jaech. “I’ve seen people go from nothing to being talented and being able to play nice music that people enjoy.” l TWITTER.COM/THERAMPAGEGUY

Audience captivated by Agave Baroque

BY AUGUST PROMNITZ

dpromnitz@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College was taken back in time to the 17th century, on the night of March 8, when Agave Baroque performed for a humble-insize but spellbound audience in the auditorium of the Old Administration Building.

Agave Baroque consists of violinist Aaron Westman, Flemish harpsichordist JungHae Kim, viola de gamba player Shirley Hunt, and Baroque guitarist and FCC instructor Dr. Kevin Cooper.

Founded in 2008, Agave Baroque has performed in venues from the Bay Area to New York City, and FCC was host to their “Friends of Ferdinand” concert.

The music performed represented the work of Baroque composers from throughout Europe, including that of the Holy Roman Emperor of the concert’s namesake. The instruments and equipment were authentic and accurate to the times, and included a more than 300-year-old violin.

In between songs, the performers further educated the audience by explaining the stories behind the music, composers, and the instruments

played. And after each song was performed, they had to tune and retune their equipment, but each succeeding song made the brief wait worthwhile.

In showcasing each member, the band was able to display the full range of emotion and and feel to the Baroque era, doing it complete justice.

Among the most significant of moments, for example, was JungHae Kim’s solo performance on the Flemish harpsichord, in which the crutches-bound musician played alone onstage to show the beauty of her instrument, the other members standing by the audience in visible awe. Photo by Kevynn Gomez. Aaron Westman on baroque violin (left), JungHae Kim on Further highlighting harpsichord, Kevin Cooper on baroque guitar and Shirley Hunt on viola da gamba. The the entire show were the Agave baroque ensemble performed in the OAB Auditorium on March 8. hypnotic solos of Westman’s violin, resurrecting the composers of Habsburg prince’s tragic passing, race an experience forever impressed on the time and giving a personality to to the clouds, and elation in heaven. All those who viewed it. It was a privilege this was done without a single word to all those in attendance, and much the pieces. is owed to Dr. Cooper for bringing his In Agave’s rendition of Fro- embedded in the song.

Accuracy to history and atten- fellow players to FCC for a night of berger’s “Lament on the Death of Ferdinand III,” Westman’s touching tion to every beautiful detail was laid fine music and time travel. violin was able to tell the story of the out in Agave Baroque’s performance, l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 03.13.2013

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7

‘Why Marry?’ entertains with humor and wit

BY KEVYNN GOMEZ

kgomez@therampageonline.com

At a country estate “not too far away,” the Fresno City College students acting in Jesse Lynch Williams’ play “Why Marry?” brought the conflicts of 20th century social issues to life on the March 1 premiere.

Using humor and the charming appeal of early 1900s fashion, “Why Marry?” captivated its small audience with its quick wit, talented actors and beautiful set design.

Although mistakes crept in momentarily, the opening of “Why Marry?” directed by James Knudsen was a rousing, refreshing success that transported its audience to a lovely yet challenged world for a couple of hours.

The light pastel tones and calming atmosphere of Christopher Boltz’s set design underscore the casual affluence of the wealthy family tangled in a web of touchy issues such as marriage, divorce and women’s individuality.

The audience is introduced to Jean and Rex first, a young engaged couple played by FCC students Krystal Brock and Javier Padilla. The couple is filled with doubts and fears of jumping into a loveless marriage. However, their problems are focused on less than those of Lucy and John, the eldest couple in the family who struggle to keep peace in their conservative and tense marriage.

Both couples are at odds with the desires and characteristics of Helen and Ernest. Played by Mallory Scott

and Will Jorge, Helen and Ernest are the idealistic heroes in an era when women were expected to be nothing but voiceless housewives.

Ye t w i t h h e r brother John – played

by Esau Mora – controlling her finances and her life, Helen must choose whether to deny her place in “normal” society or to enjoy an unmarried but happy relationship. John’s wife Lucy – played by Tamara Veres-Vailant – serves as the antithesis of Helen’s brave, bold optimism.

There are three central reasons “Why Photo by Darlene Wendels. Mallory Scott and Will Jorge portray an intimate moment as Marry?” was a success.

Helen and Ernest in Jesse Lynch Williams’ play, “Why Marry?”

Its realistic character development, the actors’ fluid team- end of the play it is revealed Helen is tripping on the stage designs or mowork and the snarky humor Williams unhappy in her marriage and wants to mentary forgetting of lines did occur, interspersed in his play allow for a leave. Despite this newfound courage the actors were professional enough fast-paced, accessible and entertain- to speak out, she ultimately stays a to progress easily from such mishaps.

While some actors spoke too fast at ing medium to discuss topics that can doting wife.

Esau Mora’s spineless, manipula- times or jumbled their words, overall easily become weighed down by their tive character keeps his heartless plans the play was understandable even with own seriousness.

Characters like Helen are com- as a puppeteer right below the surface 20th century diction.

The hard work of the actors, plex yet subtle enough to make “Why of his angry outbursts and superficial along with the beautiful set design Marry?” relatable for individuals born compliments.

As fellow actors, Veres-Vailant and intricate costumes made “Why decades after the play was produced.

Veres-Vailant does an excellent and Mora, along with the rest of the Marry?” an entertaining experience job building the tension in a woman talented cast, work well to balance while portraying the skills and passion of FCC college students. expected to remain timid, weak and each other’s roles.

Although few mistakes, such as dedicated to her cold husband. By the l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

8

OPINION

03.13.2013

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

Sexploration with Troy and Matthew “What is your stance on friends with benefits?”

THE GAY PERSPECTIVE

BY TROY POPE

tpope@therampageonline.com

Friends generally have a lot in common, so things moving into the bedroom can happen. The question is do you let it happen again or just deem it a one-time thing.

We’ve all been there; not in a relationship and in need of emotional and physical contact. It is OK to get together with one of your friends temporarily and have every aspect of a relationship, except the relationship part.

Whether or not to have a friend with benefits is a decision only you can make. The moral judgement is on you and no one else.

However, having more than one friend with benefits is not OK. That’s really just you sleeping around.

Having a no-strings-attached relationship with a guy friend is the safest way to have sex when not in an actual relationship.

Gay clubs are f illed with promiscuous people. There is no way of knowing where strangers have been. You are more likely to know the sexual history and HIV status of your friend.

The important thing to know is where to draw the line. The two of you just need to be on the same page and not expect anything out of it.

If one person has feelings and the other does not, it’s not fair to continue.

If you find yourself interested in another guy, it’s time to break off the benefits with your friend. If they’re in the same place you are emotionally, they will understand.

When you start dating someone, or even talking to someone, the guy

you’ve been messing around with must immediately go back to being a friend.

It can be difficult, but it is vital if you are to have any chance of a successful relationship with the new guy.

Sex with a good friend can be more fun than sex with someone you just met. You learn more about each other and you can become closer to them than you were before. It also gives you the ability to help your friend find “Mr. Right.” Since you know more about your friend, you know more about what and who they are really

looking for.

Although you create the illusion of monogamy with a friend with benefits, it is not something to be discussed in a public forum. Others may see you as promiscuous, and potential boyfriends will see you as taken even though you aren’t.

Yes, it is OK to have a monogamous sex friend. However, would you want to date someone that is already bangin’ some guy? Probably not. So have fun with your friend, just keep that information to yourselves. l TWITTER.COM/DARKTROY

THE STRAIGHT PERSPECTIVE

BY MATTHEW ELLIOTT

melliott@therampageonline.com

Until a few years ago, I was adamantly opposed to the idea of “friends with benefits.” I would go so far as to scorn my friends for entertaining the thought.

L i ke m o s t a n y o n e w h o unacceptably holds others accountable for their way of life, however, I was in the wrong and have since had a change of heart.

That is to say, I had a friend with benefits. I believe deeply in monogamous relationships and maintained the creed during that chapter of my life. I found that sexual activity with a close and trusted friend did not affect my core values. That right there is cognitive dissonance in a nutshell.

Of course, ensuring that your friend is mature and on the level is paramount to the success of an advantageous friendship.

I for one value my friends and hold each of them in high regard.

With that in mind, I personally reject

the notion of pursuing sexual activity with a friend at the expense of the friendship itself.

If either you or the friend in question have a tendency to become emotionally attached and fear that your friendship could be adversely affected by either “the benefits” or by the prospect of eventually committing to a healthy, fulfilling relationship, then I would strongly advise against the practice.

The female with whom I had a “friends with benefits” relationship is a dear friend, not a sperm depository.

During this period of our lives, neither of us would have ever disregarded what forged that friendship to begin with. She was entitled to my honesty, trust, monogamy and respect at all times. In turn, I was entitled to the same.

Ignoring and dismissing the importance of close friendships in pursuit of sexual opportunities is indicative of a person who lacks the maturity or empathetic wherewithal to maintain strong friendships to begin with. If you as a man or woman feel pressured by a so-called friend to get sexually involved, question their loyalty.

Personally, I find the superficial nature of sexual activity for the narrow sake of pleasure to be unattractive, deplorable and mutually degrading.

For those keeping up with these articles, you may realize that I am an ardent supporter of secure and healthy attachments. I have always opposed any activity that undermines the lifelong cultivation of healthy friendships and relationships.

Having said that, wine works in mysterious ways. l TWITTER.COM/PATH_OF_LOTUS

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 03.13.2013

Campus Voices “What additional services do FCC veterans need?”

Mary Alfieris Veterans Certifying Officer “We are looking forward to having increased office space, so we can better serve our increased volume of veterans registering.”

Jessica Rodriguez Chemistry “More computer services and access to Internet.”

Tara Sweeney Business Marketing “They need an orientation on what services are available, and a civilian job training, priority registration.”

Desiree Vela Japanese Language “Encourage more veterans to go to college and create incentives for people who plan to be in the service in the future.”

WRITTEN BY ALYCE DIAZ, SYDNEY EXCINIA PHOTOS BY MICHAEL MONROY

OPINION

9

ADMINISTRATIVE RESOURCES: PROGRESS AND STAGNATION

BY RAMPAGE EDITORIAL BOARD editorial@therampageonline.com

THUMBS UP: VETERANS RESOURCE CENTER After years of promises, Fresno City College President Tony Cantu announced last Friday that the college is finally allocating funds and building space for a veteran’s resource center.

The center could become available as soon as this fall.

The editors of the Rampage say “Thumbs up” to our administration for making this a priority following the passage of Proposition 30. The new resource center offers this campus a better opportunity to guide veterans and active-duty military personnel through their long term pursuit of a prosperous civilian life.

Until now, those returning from their deployments were left in the darkness without the academic and vocational support that they need in order to thrive.

The process of assimilating back to civilian life can be daunting or even overwhelming.

Veterans returning home of tentimes suffer from severe depression, anxiety, PTSD or a combination thereof.

Although the vast majority of veterans are profoundly disciplined and courageous, they require the guidance and support of college counselors, the veteran community, civilians and our government.

Among the thousands of veterans currently enrolled here, approximately 650 receive benefits designed for former and current members of the military.

We have an obligation to provide them with essential services and community resources while they gradually readapt to living ordinary lives. We also have an obligation to demonstrate to veterans that their sacrifices are

recognized and appreciated.

Hats off to President Cantu and Vice President of Student Services, Dr. Christopher Villa for approving this veterans resource center, even with the constraints of a tight budget and limited building space. We commend them for placing the needs of exmilitary personnel above those of other demanding organizations.

THUMBS DOWN: RESTRICTED LIBRARY ACCESS Still, there are other resources that are drastically underfunded or overlooked and should be addressed immediately. “ Thumbs down” for the administration’s continued lack of sufficient funding of the college library.

Graphic by Adan M a ny s t u d e n t s h ave n o choice but to balance coursework with off-campus responsibilities, including child care and work.

Single parents, the working poor and others with inf lexible schedules are disproportionately affected by the narrow hours of operation offered by the library.

The library opens at 7:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday. Those with morning classes are deprived the opportunity to study and prepare prior to their 7 a.m. coursework. Students with evening classes face the same discrimination. Not only is the library closed on weekends, the building shuts its doors to students at 2 p.m. on Fridays.

The same criticism applies to the computer lab and the reading and writing center, which are also underfunded. The computer lab closes at 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 3 p.m. on Thursday and 2 p.m. on Friday. The college restricts access to evening students who may have no other option but to do research for their assignments on campus.

The reading and writing center is so poorly funded that students in need can only receive assistance from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Wednesday and until 3 p.m. on Thursdays.

On Fridays, the center is open for a mere three hours and is consistently understaffed. This is an unacceptable barrier to academic progress.

Failing to provide for the needs of large segments of the student body deprives the it of an equal opportunity to succeed and is grossly unfair. The library staff, computer lab, and reading and writing center have little choice but to De la Cerda work within the constraints of their limited budgets. It is the responsibility of the administration to adequately provide for the students they claim they work for.

The editors of the Rampage assign all blame to our administrators for the inadequate funding of necessary resources for students. In order to equally succeed, students require these fundamental services. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

10

OPINION

03.13.2013

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

Do we still live in a man’s world?

PRO

BY KEVYNN GOMEZ

kgomez@therampageonline.com

Women are still paid less than men, women’s rights legislation is still decided mainly by male politicians and the mainstream media still portrays women in a sexist light. Yes, we are still living in a man’s world. Who could logically argue against this?

We are living in a country where the sole founders were rich, white males that found women to be inferior and weak.

That same ideology has inevitably seeped into the underlying themes of our culture after centuries of circulation.

Throughout the ages, society defined very specific and rigid gender roles that encompassed all aspects of everyday life for men and women.

This taught the average citizen that women were naïve and fragile, and belonged within the confines of the household where her only skills of cleaning, cooking, birthing and raising children would keep her busy.

Diametric to this was the man’s role of stepping out onto the frontiers of business and society to earn a solid income, protect his family and engage in politics and public discourse.

Has much changed? According to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, the wage gap between men and women still exists, and substantially so. In its April 2012 publication “The Gender Wage Gap by Occupation,” the gender wage gap for median weekly income in 2011 was 17.8 percent.

Even when examining job fields many assume belong to women such as registered nursing, the wage gap shows itself.

Women make up more than 90 percent of the nursing field, yet the weekly income for male nurses is $1,081 and only $1,034 for female nurses.

We cannot claim that women have achieved equality when men are still being paid more for doing the exact same job.

Even on issues which men cannot anatomically relate to, such as abortion or birth control, their decisions still dictate how women should live their lives.

The Congressional Research Service, a legislative branch agency of the Library of Congress, issued a report on the 112th Congress of the United States. The 112th Congress (the 2011-2012 year) was comprised of 91

women out of 541 total congressional members, or 16.8 percent. That’s a very large gap for a group of people who create the laws of our country.

Men also fight the battles over women’s bodies whether the female percentage of society agrees with this or not.

HR 447: Prenatal Nondiscrimination Act of 2013 sponsored by Republican Rep. Trent Franks of Arizona was proposed for the 113th 2013-2015 Congress. This bill was created to “prohibit discrimination against the unborn on the basis of sex or race,” in regards to sex-selective abortions, or abortions when a fetus is aborted due to its undesirable sex, which predominantly happens to female fetuses.

Regardless of your stance on abortion, is it fair for men to decide the legal fate of a woman’s body and the life only she is capable of bringing forth? Out of the 102 co-sponsors of HR 447, few are women.

Abortion is a controversial issue that divides women across America, and the biological confines of abortion make it a personal issue men are anatomically incapable of relating to.

The decisions made about a woman’s uterus, vagina and fetus should be lef t to women. With male politicians dominating American government, there is little hope of the female voice being heard correctly.

Wo m en are also continually portrayed as objects of entertainment which leads to their consequent devaluing. Society’s obsession with the futile quest for physical perfection has established disturbing goals for women.

The constant proliferation of visual media pushing a superficial, sexual or physically impossible agenda (fashion advertising is just one example) manipulates and skews women’s perceptions of themselves, leading to personal values based on physical beauty instead of, say, academic skill or independence.

The patriarchal overtones of America have become deviously subtle in an age of technology, social media and consumerism.

The steps we take as a nation into an advanced future hide the flaws of a male-dominated culture, making it harder for women to pinpoint this injustice.

Yet we are still living in a man’s world. Until we fix these social wrongdoings, we stand no chance o achieving a truly equal world. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE

CON

BY COLBY TIBBET

ctibbet@therampageonline.com

Has it been a man’s world?

Well, we can all unanimously say “Of course!”

There is no doubt that in the world, and namely the United States, male dominance has been the status quo. In the next few years as industries are seeming to shift into new paradigms and the U.S. strives to get out of its economic growing pains, women will be the ones on top. The thought of a man’s world will be antiquated, just like the notion of women staying home with the kids, or not being able to vote.

The key to influencing your environment is education. American women are quickly gaining the majority in enrollment rates and college graduates over men.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, 96 percent of high school girls plan on attending college opposed to 90 percent of boys who say they will attend.

A study published in 2004 titled “Higher Education: Gaps and Persistence Study” also showed that three quarters of girls would attend college right after high school while only two thirds of males would immediately attend.

According to a recent report by the American Council on Education women account for 57 percent of all students enrolled nationwide.

Locally, California State University, Fresno’s enrollment is about 59 percent women, with men’s enrollment rate trailing behind at 41 percent. This creates a giant head start for women, and leaves men crawling towards their educational career.

The cause for the disparaging numbers of men in college is a myriad of factors, but the ongoing shift of

women’s roles in society are the biggest contributors.

Women are no longer expected to marry at a young age. More couples wait to marry until their careers are established, and this has ubiquitously changed the landscape for women in America. Waiting for marriage means waiting for kids, which in turn increases a woman’s chance of climbing up the socioeconomic ladder.

It’s an alarming and exciting trend that shows the barometer of power is shifting. Women’s strength in education serves as a conduit for women’s success in entering America’s workforce.

Many say that men still dominate the workplace. Although men still get paid more than women in same positions, we cannot ignore factors that indicate women’s growing role in the workforce.

Since the last recession, women are, for the first time in history, the majority of the workforce in America.

This is due to men losing their jobs at a higher rate than women during the 2008 recession, with three quarters of the 8 million jobs lost were positions held by men. Besides men losing jobs, men are losing ground in adapting to the changing economic landscape.

Hana Rosin, a journalist and author of “The End of Men,” in a 2010 “The Atlantic” article writes: “The post-industrial economy is indifferent to men’s size and strength.

The attributes that are most valuable today—social intelligence, open communication, the ability to sit still and focus—are, at a minimum, not predominantly male.”

This idea of men not adapting to the times can be seen through countless industries, as women now taking the majority in accounting, banking, insurance and managerial jobs over men, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

However, I believe that the increase of women in middle and upper management will create a demand for more representation of that demographic in the top positions. In a few years, a Meg Whitman or a Indra Nooyi will no longer be the exception to the rule.

It still holds true that men get paid dramatically higher than women even if they have the same career or position. Although true in the majority of industries, this is seeing some progress from legislation.

In 2009, President Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Act, which makes it easier for women to act against pay discrimination in the workplace.

This, in turn, further pushes equal pay for their occupation. It isn’t going to end the gender discrepancy between wages, but it is another step in putting salaries on a equilibrium between genders.

So is it still a man’s world? Currently, yes. The media still perpetuates the tropes of women and still adheres to male dominance, but the shifts in education, economy and the workplace are happening quickly and soon that the world is anyone’s now, and I believe women will take it. l TWITTER.COM/ROBOTMILK

SPORTS

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 03.13.2013

11

SOFTBALL TEAM PROSPERS IN ALL ASPECTS

BY PATRICK FORREST

pforrest@therampageonline.com

Just over half way through the season and Fresno City College’s softball team is once again competing for the Central Valley Conference crown, which they won in 2012.

The team started the season ranked No. 11 in the California Community College Fast Pitch Coaches Association State Poll and No. 5 in the Northern California Poll.

Led by the pitching of Grace Combs and the offense of Rainie Thiessen, Adriana Bencomo and Kyla Cisneros, the Rams started the season winning seven of their first eight games.

They’ve slowed just a bit since coming to a record of 13-5, second in the central valley conference behind College of the Sequoias.

“We really rely on Grace’s pitching,” said Williams. “She had to carry the load for a while and she really came through for us.”

Combs has the conference lead in strikeouts with 51 and also leads in wins with six. Her earned run average of 3.42 is good enough for third.

“She really knows how to compete and she has tons of experience but hopefully with the return of Kassandra Workentine we can back off the number of innings she’s throwing,” said Williams.

Thiessen is first in on base percentage at .604 and second in batting with an average of .500. She has also recorded three triples which ranks second and 21 runs which is the fourth highest in the conference.

Bencomo ranks third with a .462 batting average, fifth in hits with 24 and sixth in runs with 19. Cisneros has done her share as she is No. 1 with five home runs and an .880 slugging percentage.

She is also second in runs batted in, fourth in triples and eighth in bat-

Photo by Victor Aparicio. From left to right: Adriana Bencome, Kyla Cisneros, Rainie Thiessen and Grace Combs have been leaders this season on the Fresno City College softball team. ting average.

“To be a really good team you have to have all three components: pitching, offense and defense,” said Williams. “And we have been really solid in all three, all season long.”

The team has a .953 fielding percentage, the best in the conference and only 20 errors which is the second fewest in the conference.

“We can play really good defense but unfortunately defense can’t score you runs,” said Williams.

The Rams have recorded 76

Tennis team looks to overcome inexperience

BY KEANUDREY CLARK

kclark@therampageonline.com

This year’s Fresno City College women’s tennis team faces an uphill battle as they don’t have any players with more than one year of experience at the junior college level.

“This team has been focusing on the process of tennis, they are still learning the game, and not focused on wins and losses,” said assistant coach Roni Monreal. “We are still a young team with a lot of room to grow.”

Despite this lack of experience, they are in the middle of the standings in the league and they have a chance to finish tri-league champs with a victory against Reedley College on March 22.

The Rams defeated Modesto College on March 8 to put themselves in a position for a league title.

“With this team’s inexperience we will need some practice to get where we want to be, but this group is motivated,” said Monreal.

“Coming into the season, this being my first year I wanted to become a better overall player,” said Desiray Torres one of the many freshman on this year’s team.

Fifty-four-year-old, Fresno State Multi Media professor Candace Egan is also a first year player at FCC. Egan is undefeated in conference play.

She brings a different type of leadership to the team.

“The opposing team might see me as an easy win because of my age but I use everything I have learned to use when I’m on the court,” said Egan.

Fresno City College will host the Big 8 Conference Championship from April 4-6. l TWITTER.COM/SLOCUM13

strikeouts while only giving up 99 hits.

Their team ERA of 3.79 is second best in the conference.

The offense is moving along just as impressively. They have a team batting average of .362, an on base percentage of .430 and a .548 slugging percentage which all rank second in the conference.

“Our offense has really surprised me but this is a funny game. You can score a bunch of runs one game and then get shutout the next,” said Williams.

Event

The team currently ranks No. 10 in all of California and No. 6 in northern California.

“We have really got to take this one game at a time and if we just handle our business day by day, then we should be in a pretty good spot once it’s all over,” said Williams.

The next chance to catch the softball team in action at home will be Thursday March 21 when the Rams take on Reedley College at 2 p.m. l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8

GAME SCHEDULE Opponent

Location

Date

Men’s Golf

Conference No. 4

Ahwahnee, Calif.

March 13

Baseball

College of the Sequoias

Visalia, Calif.

March 14

Softball

Taft College

Taft, Calif.

March 14

Men’s Tennis

LA Pierce

FCC

March 15

Women’s Tennis

Sacramento City College

FCC

March 15

Badminton

Preseason Tournament

FCC

March 16

Track and Field

Hornet Invitational

CSU, March 16 Sacramento

Women’s Basketball

Mt. San Antonio College

Sacramento March 16

Men’s Golf

Conference No. 5

FCC

March 20

12

SPORTS

03.13.2013

THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM

RAMS RETURN TO FINAL FOUR

BY TOMAS KASSAHUN

tkassahun@therampageonline.com

A year ago the Fresno City College women’s basketball team came up just short of winning a state championship as they lost in the final four.

With an 83-70 win over Sierra College at FCC on Saturday, the Rams returned to where they left off 12 months ago.

As they have done throughout the playoffs, the Rams came into the match ready to dominate on both sides of the court. The Rams’ defense put the pressure on Sierra early on while the offense clicked from inside and outside.

With 10 minutes left in the first half, the Rams held a 10-point lead. Sierra stayed aggressive, hoping to cut into the double digit lead.

But the Rams would answer back every time Sierra made a push.

Late in the first half, the Rams’ Karissa Booker took over. She first drained a 3-point shot then immediately stole the inbounds pass from Sierra for a layup. Booker drilled another 3-pointer on the Rams’ next position to push the Rams lead to 42-26 with 4:03 left in the first half.

Madison Parrish connected on a 3-pointer from the corner to give the Rams a 47-29 lead going into halftime.

That was only the beginning for Parrish who scored 23 points in the game.

“She defends, she scores, she handles the ball. She has been playing her best basketball in the playoffs,” said FCC head coach Brian Tessler.

Parrish converted a 3-point play three minutes into the second half to push the Rams’ lead to 20.

But the Wolverines would not go down easily. They would tighten the defense and cause the Rams to commit turnovers while also blocking shots inside.

After a 3-point shot by Sierra’s Kirstie Williams, the Rams’ lead was down to seven, causing Tessler to call a timeout.

“I told them basketball is a game of runs. I said at some point we’re going to get our run,” said Tessler.

The Rams would get a run thanks in large part to the free throw line. FCC ended up making 20 free throws in the game while Sierra made five.

“We changed our game plan once we got the lead. We were getting tired and they were getting easy baskets,” said Tessler.

With 4:22 left in the game, the Rams managed to push the lead back to 16 points.

Nina Gregory made her only 3-pointer of the game with 1:30

left on the clock to put away the Wolverines for good.

“We came out with great intensity and we came out playing great defense. We tired them out. Even though we were getting tired also, we relied on our bench,” said Parrish. “As they were getting closer and closer, we needed to work as a team. I needed to score or make someone score.”

The Rams will now face undefeated Mt. San Antonio College in Sacramento on Saturday. The winner of that game will face either Santa Rosa Junior College or Mt. San Jacinto for the state championship.

“We’ve seen all these teams before. We played them early on so we know what to expect and how to beat them,” said Booker.

Parrish adds that the home crowd has been a major boost for the Rams throughout the playoffs.

“The home crowd was big.

There were a lot of people and that helped with our energy,” said Parrish.

This is the fourth time in six years that the Rams have reached the final four.

“It’s about the kids. They deserve to be here,” said Tessler.

“We’re gonna go and enjoy it and our goal is to win the whole thing.”

T:10”

l TWITTER.COM/THERAMPAGEGUY

Photo by Karen West. The Rams prepare for their match against Mt. San Antonio College in the state tournament.

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