IntenseCity

Mission Statement At IntenseCity, our mission is to inform, enlighten, educate, and challenge the Fresno City College student body and community at large. Our goal is to provide our readers with information on community issues, cultural highlights, and artistic venues to improve the college experience.

Editorial Board Jeremy Plumb, Karina Ornelas, Jacqueline Garcia, Ben Fierro, Sarah Myers, Tiffany Tonel, Sandra Delgadillo Contributors Kimberly Lake Waldron, Emanuel Campos, Romero Gudino, Manuel Morphin, Marc Anthony Ramirez, Frank Ramirez, Kris Goka, Abel Cortez, Carleigh Takemoto, Kate Robertson, Josephus Whitfield, Aleisha Deyoung, Judy Thao, David Lopez Jr., Manny Pantoja, Ernie Ortega, Miguel Moreno, Lindsey Rudometkin, Michael Camacho Faculty Advisor Carlos Fierro Location Fresno City College 1101 East University Fresno, CA. 93741 Contact Office:(559) 442-8262 Fax: (559) 265- 5783 Please send letters to editor or submissions to: Intensecityfcc@gmail.com www.myspace.com/intensecity_fcc www.twitter.com/intensecitymag

Cover Design by IntenseCity Magazine students. Thanks to

IntenseCity magazine is produced by Fresno City College Journalism department, which is part of the Fine Performing Arts Communication Division

Vol. 3, Issue 1, Spring 2010

health.....36

CONTENTS Campus Life.....4

Campus Playlist By: Tiffany Tonel

Campus Musicians By: Karina Ornelas

Bringing Music to Life

By: Sandra Delgadillo

Making the Most of History

By: Jeremy S. Plumb

Day and Night By: Jacqueline Garcia

College Activities By: Jacqueline Garcia

Medical Technology...

By: Jeremy Plumb

Fashion.....18

Comfort vs. Style

By: Sandra Delgadillo

Eats.....20

Auntee Boo & Cousin Drew Stuff Waffles

By: Tiffany Tonel

Tower Dogs...

By: Sarah Myers

Smokey’s Grill By: Jacqueline Garcia

Lucy’s Lair By: Tiffany Tonel

Savor the Flavor of Yoshino’s

By: Jeremy S. Plumb

Las Cazuelas Restaurante

By: Sandra Delgadillo

Features.....26

Rate My Professors By: Judy Thao

Welcome to the Twitterrevolution

By: Emanuel Campos

Technology Gets Personal

By: Kim Lake

Waldron

Digital Consumption By: Karina Ornelas

Sexting By: Sandra Delgadillo Top: Campus Musicians, Middle: Badmitton, Bottom: College Activities

How I Lost 90 Pounds

By: Jeremy S. Plumb

Veganism (Pt. 1 of 2) By: Ben Fierro

My Experience as a Vegan (Pt. 2 of 2)

By: Ben Fierro

Wait or Fate...

By: Jeremy S. Plumb

sports.....46

Badminton By: Ben Fierro

Steroid Use At Fresno City College

By: Jeremy S. Plumb

FCC art.....50

FCC Artists

FCC poetry.....54

Carleigh Takemoto &

resources.....58

On a Budget? Shop

Kate Escobar

Local

By: Sarah Myers

Campus Life

CAMPUS PLAYLIST

W

hile wa student and find world of music. W

By Tiffany Tonel

Pokemon RSE Trainer Battle Music “With Everything”—Hillsong United “Clarity”—John Mayer “Hungry (Falling on my Knees)”— Joy Williams “Somalia”—K’naan “Daughters”--John Mayer “A Place For My Head”—Linkin Park

“I like this song because I earnestly feel peace, and the lyrics are so powerful.”

Kelsi Goto, 19, Undecided

“The artist se message; he where he cam Mazin Abdulf Geology majo

“When I’m Gone”—Eminem “It’s Complicated”—Avril Lavigne “Citizen Soldier”—3 Doors Down

“I like the beat; h Melvin Johnson,

Raquel Cuizon “I love John Mayer’s voice and lyrics.”

“I like the lyrics.”

Savanna Blair, 21 major

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alking the campus of Fresno City College, any wondered what they are listening to? Get out of your musical t or faculty member can take a look around them comfort zone and check out what our campus d people tuned out of the real world and into a community listens too and why they enjoy it.

We see this on a daily basis, but have you ever

ends a good represents me from.” fattah, 19, or

how it goes.”

19, ATP

” 1, Animal Science

More Songs...found on campus

“Over the Rainbow”—Israel Kamakawiwo’ole “Second Language”—Disco Inferno

“It reminds me of the U.S. soldiers in Iraq.”

Jamie Cain, 20, ATP

“The lyrics are amazing.

They say everything that I want to do for God.” Manny Pantoja, 21, Visual Communications major

“A Drop in the Ocean”--Ron Pope “Better Days”—Tupac Shakur “Wake Up”—Story of the Year “Turn Your Back”—Billy Talent “Piano Lessons Can Be Murder”—Dr. Acula “Wildcat”—Ratatatat “What Goes Around, Comes Around”—Justin Timberlake

“The song is about bad relationships and I can relate to it.”

Estevan Duarte, 24, Music Commercial major

“Number 5 with a Bullet”—Taking Back Sunday

“The beat expresses battle and an outgoing personality. It’s music to kick ass.”

John Vasquez, 20, Nursing major

“Lemon Kush”—Curren$y “Sex on Fire”—Kings of Leon “FTW”—Lionheart “808”—J. Stalia “Like You’ll Never See Me Again”—Alicia Keys “Mystery”—Beast “Faded Line”—Lamb of God

“The song is about the U.S. soldiers. It assures me that they’ll be there when you need them.”

Luke Norvell, 21, History Major

“Animal”—Nickelback “Ncaim Mus Dua Twg”—Hmong Songs

Photography by Tiffany Tonel

5

campus life

Campus Musicians

By Karina Ornelas

Carlos Vasquez (left) and fellow musicians join together on a sunny afternoon at Fresno City College in a casual jam session in front of the FCC theater located on the south east end of campus.

Photography by Tiffany Tonel

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gree. Open areas all over campus become a sort of rehearsal-type space for anyone with an instrument and a desire to play. The free atmosphere is ideal for any one musician who is serious about their music and will eventually go on to perform for varying numbers of people. As long as these musicians are listened to by family, friends, or strangers, they will always experience the notion that they are being watched.

Vasquez confirms that there is always a feeling of being subconscious or shy when as a musician you are playing out in public and people are around to listen. He said, “You are going to be criticized no matter what.”

Vasquez knows he’s not bad at playing the guitar as he has previously accompanied other FCC musicians in jam sessions that have taken place near FCC’s center water fountain. All of this allows Vasquez to remain confident in himself and his music.

O

n a campus like Fresno City College, there are numerous activities students can be seen doing on any given day. Many of them handling their busy social lives via talking or texting on spiffy, high-tech cellular phones. There are always the hungry students rushing to get a bite to eat perhaps while in between classes. And there are always the students who are not necessarily doing anything except hanging out with friends or classmates, some puffing on cigarettes, and some simply enjoying the weather.

If you make an effort to stop by the area that surrounds the music department on campus, you will find something else entirely. Something that is so intriguing that in a way it is almost as if it were a completely different world. There is a phenomenon occurring at Fresno City College that many students witness day after day, but very few of them ever really pay much attention to.

For some FCC students, music is a form of self expression. For other students, it is much like doing homework for any other class on this campus. Regardless of the reasons why students on our FCC campus play musical instruments publicly, it can be said that many of the students who practice music here are quite talented. Anyone walking around

campus can see, or rather they can hear, the dedication these students apply to their musical abilities.

Carlos Vasquez, a guitar major at FCC plays his acoustic guitar out in the open area outside the music building. Vasquez, dressed all in black, from his beanie down to his Ray Ban sunglasses covering his eyes, seems to like the calm and peaceful way to brush up on an instrument.

Vasquez, who claims to also occasionally dabble a little bit in choir as a requirement for a class he is currently enrolled in, often finds himself sharpening his guitar playing skills while just hanging out. Although he only plays guitar in the open area on campus as often as time permits, he doesn’t do it as part of a class. He doesn’t take his guitar out strictly as a homework assignment that requires him to rehearse in public. He does it purely for the love of it.

Many campus musicians are already involved in bands, so playing musical instruments in public does not faze them to a notable de-

He continues to play for himself and not anyone else. He’s simply practicing, rehearsing, or working towards getting better at playing his guitar. For being a guitar major, that not only shows confidence and strength of character, but it also shows discipline. Dedicated to his musical studies, he purely does not care what people may think of his talents.

Anyone who plays an instrument and is able to carry it around with them all over campus can also do the same. The vast space all over the FCC campus is constantly available to those who will care to use it as their own rehearsal space.

Thus far, no one has asked any campus musician to stop playing music like this in public.

No one has started a riot claiming that it’s disruptive to other students walking by in the area. FCC music students can and do play music outside when they want. There aren’t many ways to disrupt them from doing so peacefully. This is happening on our campus, it’s something small and simple that we may or may not notice. But if we listen carefully we might hear a familiar tune. One filled with hopes and dreams, and endless possibilities.

The tune of an FCC student musician.

7

campus life

Bringing Music to Life by sandra delgadillo

“

How do you eat an elephant?” asked Jim Foxx as he explained how the beginning of his first semester at Fresno City College went, as he covers for Julie Dana, currently on sabbatical. Foxx then shortly answered, “One piece at a time.” Unless you’re enrolled in one of Foxx’s choir classes, you probably don’t understand the concept of this phrase. Every single piece of music that our FCC choir works on is a step closer to bringing a song back to life. With their angelic

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voices in perfect harmony and pitch, it’s only obvious why they bring a lot of great publicity to our campus.

FCC Concert Choir and City Singers have a busy schedule for this semester. From performing at Dr. Crows’ retirement party, alongside Willow and Reedley’s’ choirs, to FCC students’ graduation, there’s nothing

these vocalists are unable to do. This past March, our fellow FCC chorale ensembles preformed Beethoven’s 9th Symphony along with the Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra. Foxx said that the first few weeks were rough, but they managed, even with 52 inexperienced choir students. Eight weeks

of rehearsal and they were set to go for the symphony.

Daniel Lee is a Bass singer with three years of “professional” singing experience. He said, “I would recommend choir because it’s an all along learning experience. You learn different [types of] music and have a lot of fun.” Lee then adds, “I like music, it’s something I can do to pursue my studies.”

In spite of Dana not being the choir director this semester, we still expect to hear great things. “They always have high ratings and get [exceptional] comments from the judges.”

Remarked Julie Dana on the choir members and their accomplishments so far. She also mentions how she doesn’t register the choir for 1st place, 2nd place festivals. However, she keeps raising the bar and they never seem to disappoint. The reason all these FCC students are in choir to begin with, is that their lives are driven by music and take the

time to better their skills. “A lot of people think music groups are like Glee, and it’s

not at all. It doesn’t happen magically...

They work really, really hard.” said Dana.

FCC student Jesse Coronado has been part of FCC’s music group for these past two semesters; yet, he has been singing his whole life.

“Choir is fun and you get to know people. As a whole, the choir always grows and I try to keep improving.”

As I sat through their rehearsal I must’ve been put in a trance, because it would be a miracle for the choir to have any more room for improvement. Their dedication shows right off the bat, as they smile while they sing, and correct each other if a note had been missed or even a bit off tune. Yet, they still sound magnificent and they make you want to join along to sing as well.

“They had to get used to me at first, but they’ve done a marvelous job.” Stated Jim Foxx on how it was for the choir to have a new instructor. “They’re not afraid to try and that’s very important [as a vocalist]. I’m extremely proud of them.” Foxx taught in public schools for 40 years and retired in 2004. He now substitutes and helps choirs in other schools. “Choir gives people a chance to see that you can do anything if you work for it. We can create memories and know that we did something in life.” Foxx grins as he explains how his time here has been. “I’ve had a wonderful time here,” Foxx said. “It’s been really good for me.”

Katelyn Harrington is enrolled as a City Singer here at FCC. She spoke highly of this course. “It’s a great thing to do, not very egocentric,” Harrington said. “It’s a

[wonderful] skill to have. Singing gets people in a good mood.

Another City Singer, Isabel Contreras, fell in love with choir by accident. “I didn’t want to go to recess so I went to choir instead,” she said. “I’ve loved it ever since.” Contreras is a soprano for FCC’s City Singers and recommends that people join. “The class is a great experience and you get to meet a lot of people from different backgrounds.” Despite that it’s a very social class; it isn’t all fun and games. “It’s hard work just like any other class. When we learn a new song, it can be anything from French to Russian.” These ensembles don’t just sing songs, but also practice getting the pronunciation correct and have to make sure they’re in tune.

As I was making my way out, the choir members broke out singing “Happy Birthday”. I wasn’t sure who they were singing to or if they were just singing for the fun of it. Then Contreras smiled and said “This is why I stay here”. It turned out that it was her birthday.

I didn’t just see another choir group when I looked at them, they’re almost like family.

“It’s never a competition,” Contreras began, “it’s a sharing of what we love to do.” The love that they have for music is sure to take them far and as of now, it has.

Photography by Kris Goka

9

Campus Life

Making the Most of History: Meet

Paul Gilmore

By Jeremy s. Plumb

E

veryone who attends college is required at some point to take a history class. It is one of those dreaded classes that you can’t get away from regardless of your major area of study. During the course of a college career you will encounter many different instructors. Most of them will be forgotten after a few semesters, but occasionally there is one that leaves a lasting impression that will remain with you throughout your life. This type of educator is a rare sort, and something that we desperately need more of.

Paul Gilmore is a Professor of History here at Fresno City College. He grew up in the small town of Baraboo, Wisconsin - population of approximately 11,244, and is the son of a Presbyterian Minister. After graduating from high school he left his home town and relocated to Greenville, South Carolina where he attended Furman University and completed his undergraduate work. Following his stay in the south he returned to Wisconsin as a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where he pursued a Masters degree in United States History. Deciding that more education was necessary he once again returned to the southern part of the states to study at Georgia Tech, where he worked on a Masters degree in the History of Technology.

During his time at Georgia Tech he was part of a running consortium across several universities called SCHLITS --The Seminar in the Comparative History of Labor, Industry, Technology and Society. There, he did a lot of course work in the history of technology, especially history of American industrialization, and began to work on the study of the history of supermarkets. After his coursework, he traveled all over the country doing

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research on the history of supermarkets, including a residential research fellowship at the Hagley Museum and Library in Delaware, which he considers to be one of America’s best history of business libraries housed on the grounds of the early DuPont powder works.

Currently Mr. Gilmore is teaching History 11 & 12, along with a class in the history of the Civil Rights Movement. I, like many other students, was not overly excited about the idea of taking a history class. It was just one more boring lecture and extra needless homework to cram into my already overloaded schedule.

I made sure to go into the class fully rested and with a couple of No Doz tablets on hand to ensure my alertness. Although I went into the class with a preconceived belief of what I was going to receive, I left with an enhanced outlook on history and with a new perspective.

Paul Gilmore has a great passion for teaching and more importantly, for History. He is part of that rare type of educator that is much needed for the students of today that seem to have forgotten the importance of their history. There is an old saying, “those who fail to learn from their history are doomed to repeat it.” Mr. Gilmore believes that one of the most important discoveries any of his students can learn is from Thomas Jefferson’s historic call for “general education to enable every man to judge for himself what will secure or endanger his freedom.” Freedom is something that we all hold dear. Would it not be in our best interest then to know how we keep it?

“I always felt like FCC students were on average more driven, more serious, maybe a little more worldly-wise.

-Paul Gilmore

The subject matter of a class does not determine the likability or the impact it may have on a person. As a biology major I am most interested in the sciences. But I can assure you that Paul Gilmore’s history class will be among my most memorable. I would highly recommend any of his classes. It is an experience you are sure to remember.

It is splendid to find a diamond in the rough, so to speak, and we have one here at FCC in the history department. Professor Gilmore has a high opinion of our college and its students as he expressed saying, “I always felt like FCC students were on average more driven, more serious, maybe a little more worldly-wise. Very few are here because mommy and daddy told them they had to go – and those that are here for that reason seem to get the idea very quickly that we’re serious people here. It’s wonderful to not just ‘get the sense of’ or ‘feel like’ you’re a part of something, but to actually be a part of something important in your community – to have a place that you can help shape and have that be your job. That’s a great thing.”

Indeed it is a great thing, much like having a class to attend with an instructor that helps you see the true value of the subject. Heed my advice and do not miss out on a worthwhile experience that will enlighten your mind.

Photography by Frank Ramirez

11

Campus Life

Day and Night

“

You know it really sucks when I can’t get all of my paperwork in order because the Business Office is closed. I have a full time job, children to take care of, and I am trying to further my education all at the same time. Why do “they” offer night classes, but not all the other stuff? My job doesn’t end until 6 p.m. and my class starts at 6:30 p.m. So when I need to turn in anything for like financial aid, or pay a fee, it’s almost impossible to do. I don’t have a bank account, or access to the internet, so how do they expect me to pay?

It seems like once the clock hits 5 p.m., the offices close and I’m just left in the dust. The sad part is, that I know that there are a lot of other students in this same situation,” says a worrisome student named Frank De La Rosa.

When you walk on campus at Fresno City College at 7 a.m. and see how alive the campus is, it’s no mystery that the enrollment rate has skyrocketed. Besides the fact that many jobs have been lost and budgets have been cut, many people today are now coming back to school to further their education.

The only problem is that they got more than they had expected. Being here at a community college, many different resources are offered to all students. There are a handful of

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BY JACQUELINE GARCIA financial aid programs that actually help you pay for your books, such as EOP&S. While it may seem as a big help, if you don’t have time during the eight to five schedule to go in and get papers signed and turned in , well it’s nice to know, but doesn’t actually help. In all reality it’s actually quite frustrating. It’s like you’re almost there, but not close enough.

Dr. Chris Villa, Vice President of Students Services, stated that the hours of operation are determined by Fresno City College’s President Cynthia Azari. The president of each department submits the hours that they feel are necessary for that department to stay open. She takes into consideration what is presented to her by each department and decides if the hours are appropriate according to the school’s budget.

While the President and other faculty discuss the hours of operation based on economics, my biggest concern is the night students who have no chance of getting any kind of help after 5 p.m. With offices closing so early, the working night student would have to take time off of work, and that would mean a loss in their paycheck. Some would even have to go as far as finding a babysitter for their child/children. Also from a student’s

point of view, they pay just as much as any other student, so it really doesn’t seem quite fair that both type of students pay the same amount, yet they aren’t guaranteed the dame resources all together.

According to Dr. Villa, “It all has to do with the budget cuts.” The government has cut budgets for the schools so much, that’s it to a point where “We’ve had to hold back on vacated positions.” Since the economical set back, there has been a major rise in student enrollments. There are just too many students, and not enough staff. On that same note, the economic crisis might be new, but the whole “limited resources” isn’t.

It’s not like night classes are new, they’ve always been here. While the subject has been addressed quite a few times, there seems to have never been a solution, if there was one.

Mr. John Cummings, Vice President of Admissions and Records, notes a few good points. He mentions that he already pushes his staff to the max by having Admissions and Records available until 7 p.m. during the first three weeks of school. He also stated “We’ve even tried being open on Saturdays, but the outcome wasn’t really that great…”

It’s hard to put in a request to be available

at a time when maybe two or three students might come out. I see his point. If the outcome on a Saturday doesn’t turn out to be successful, then why waste time? Just the simple fact that Admissions and Records is already going out of their way to help accommodate the students brings me to realize that the “recession” affects everyone whether they realize it or not.

Mr. Cummings also went into detail about how much work they really have to do. Admissions and Records have to have the rosters completed no later than Sunday. Imagine if they had the extra hours open. We, as students don’t take the time to consider how the school is funded. Fresno City College receives funding the K-12 Schools do, based on attendance. So when you don’t show up to class, the school doesn’t receive funds. So think about your priorities before you start your education, what’s really important?

While there’s a big problem with limited access to the resources that we do have, it raises a big question; do the students use the resources they have anyway? And if so, is it worth extending office hours? The majority of students only use the resources during the

crucial first three weeks of the semester. The only program that many of us use is the tutorial center. Then again, with it closing early, how can we get the appropriate help that we need? There is online tutoring available, but if you don’t have internet access then it’s really no help at all. I understand that we all have bills and expenses, but the government really doesn’t care about individual needs.

They’re trying to do what is right for the state as a whole, but by doing so; they miss a lot of students that end up not getting what they need from their schools.

What it all comes down to is one major point: Budget Cuts. That’s the reason why most offices close at 5 p.m. Looking at the situation from an outside point of view, the only thing that can be done is to go up to Sacramento to the March of March and represent the students. We need to make our voices be heard! Complaining and getting upset at the people who run the offices and programs isn’t going to fix the situation. They just can’t get extra funds out of nowhere so that offices can be available. I think they’re just in an uncomfortable position themselves. They know what we as students must go through

and how hard it is for us. They have families and expense too. I believe that many of them would love to extend their hours, if they got paid to do so; wouldn’t we all? So my advice is, if we know what the problem is, as the Students whom it affects, what are we going to do about it?

Erika, who is part of ASG, has informed me of what has been done and what can also still be done from a students’ perspective”. We have asked various offices which hours are most used during the day.

Funding is very limited so offices are open depending on times when the resources are most occupied. Students could have a lot of say on this issue as well as any other issue that concerns them. Many students come up to us and we report it to various committees on campus that makes the decisions on campus. Students can speak to Dr. Villa who is the VP of student services. Students can write letters to our state legislatures to stop cutting our funds because it is hurting students.

There are many things students can do, and the more students that bring awareness to the issue, the more people will listen, hopefully.”

Photography by Frank Ramirez

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Campus Life

College Activities: What by jacqueline garcia

I

magine yourself at the State Championship Finals. Its Fresno City College vs.

Reedley College. As you look around you see balloon bouquets, red and black streamers hanging from the stands, and noise makers being passed through the crowd.

Energy is radiating from the cheerleaders pumping up the fans. As the football players run out onto the field, the crowd jumps up and cheers! You can feel the rush of excitement as the kick-off commences the game.

This is the basic scene for any FCC football game. As fans, we go to the game expecting to see the spectacle of decorations.

What most people fail to think about and appreciate, are the people who are responsible for decorating. At FCC, the College Activities Committee organizes many of the different events and games that occur. For starters, they set up and clean up after the football games. Imagine going to a game that was missing all of the dazzling bits and pieces that help create the atmosphere that makes it what it is. Could you still go

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out and enjoy the football game the same? that you have people available to ensure I know I couldn’t. The College Activities that everything goes according to plan, and Committee helps to make it all come to life. that health codes are followed so nobody will get sick or develop food poisoning?

Speaking of life, not very many students realize how much “life” Fresno City College Now when Club Rush happens, you walk has on campus. There are so many differ- down the fountain area and find several ent types of events that are opened to all the booths set up with balloons and decorations. students. Getting students motivated and You can smell the food either being fried up setting up games aren’t the only things that or barbequed. It’s a great way to get students College Activities do. They also produce involved with each other in a positive enviwhat is called “Club Rush.” Many students ronment. College Activities ensures everyhave heard of Club Rush. For those of you thing is done according to protocol. They who haven’t, it’s when just about every make sure all the food is properly cooked club that is established here at FCC gets and stored. Andrew Rocha, College Activithe chance to openly recruit new members. ties staff memeber stated, “Making sure that What most of them do is sell some type of everything is properly done is a lot of work. food. If the club is based on a culture then We basically walk to each booth and go most likely the food is as well. The different down the check sheet marking which areas clubs promote themselves in different ways the clubs need to do better on. Sometimes it to try and attract students. College Activities can be difficult because some club advisors are the ones who have to set up each booth don’t take the critiques seriously. But never and gather everything that each organiza- the less, we still do what is required. We tion might need if they want to sell food. have weekly meetings with each club and When you think about it, aren’t you glad just go over what’s best for the student com-

t’s Really Going On? a.m. and often stay as late as ten p.m. Can you imagine how chaotic the campus would be if there was no help for the students at all, especially for those who are attending for the first time? It gives new students encouragement, and helps in motivating returning students to continue strong. “It’s like a crash course for those last minute students,” says Stephanie, a current student. “And it also helps the ones who need a little extra guidance with getting their classes. Before I started working here, I never knew the extremes that College Activities went to make the students feel comfortable and prepared. I actually never even thought about how much work and effort goes into any of the events.”

munity as a whole. Besides who else would know what’s best for the students other than the students themselves!” Keeping that in mind, what is set up, yep you guessed it, must be torn down – booths included! “Man, I ain’t trippen’, ain’t nothing to it, when a man is doing it!” smirks Mr. Rocha. (Note to readers: Mr. Rocha is actually being helped by three other female staff members!)

On a more academic level, I feel the most important role that the College Activities play, is the hard work they contribute in helping the students get the best experience possible with registering for classes. At the beginning of each semester, they help organize Extreme Registration. Extreme Registration is an event where several booths are set up all throughout campus. These booths have the most current class schedules that are opened or wait listed, financial aid in-

formation, maps, brochures for different programs, and last but definitely not least, a staff that knows just about everything there is to know! This helps new students - and those of us who wait until the last minute - get the most current information for our classes. Extreme Registration starts as early as seven a.m. and ends just before ten p.m. It only lasts for about one week.

College Activities will also be hosting Welcome Week which goes along with Extreme Registration, hand in hand. “When I first started City College, I was a little bit intimidated! I was so nervous and anxious as soon as I got on campus, but seeing all the booths set up, and all the important information that they had available, I do admit, it calmed me down a lot! Especially since I just got out of high school,” explained freshman Adrianna.

The dedicated members set up as early as six

The reason why they push Welcome Week and Extreme registration together is the simple fact that they are here to help each and every student as much as they can. Now College Activities is fully aware that they can’t help each and every student individually, but their goal is to master techniques that are towards the Fresno City College community. Even though working as a College Activities Staff may at first seem fun, there are a handful of times that Janelle Cedillo can remember when it wasn’t. “It’s not that it’s not fun, there are times when you really have to work hard! A lot of these events students are counting on to run smoothly, that’s a huge responsibility. Good or bad.”

Ms. Cedillos fervently stated, “I wouldn’t trade my job for any other!” So to all the Fresno City College Students who don’t know what to do between classes stop by the College Activities Office and see what’s going on around campus. Chances are, there is some type of major event happening and the help would be welcomed. Keep an eye out for the kiosks around campus containing information and important dates that you definitely don’t want to miss!

Photos courtesy of fcc website

15

Campus Life

Medical Technology: Paving the Way for a S by jeremy s. plumb

M

edical technology is booming! Over find a suitable career, Fresno City College ofthe past decade the advancement of fers a variety of courses that will do just that. such technology has created a massive job market full of positions that are in high demand, pay higher than average salaries, and offer job security. The best part of this exciting and innovative job market is that the training for many of the various trades can be learned right here at Fresno City College. Now is the time for students to take advantage of this thriving industry and begin forging a path for a secure future.

Choosing the right major can be instrumental in securing a future career. In the present economy, many students are left wondering which path will lead them to a meaningful and successful occupation, and enable them to repay their educational debt. The medical field is constantly changing and new technology is being invented and made available for use nearly every day. For those individuals seeking to be on the cutting edge of technology and eventually

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Students at FCC can register for courses that will lead them to a promising career in the highly esteemed medical profession. Programs such as nursing, surgical technologist, radiologic technologist, medical assistant, and emergency medical technician offer an exciting avenue into the medical field and are in high demand. These types of programs can be completed in two or three years and without

the need to transfer to a four year college for a Bachelor’s degree. The average salary for these types of employment varies from 40,000 to 62,000 per year to start (not including benefits), and that is just the beginning. There is always room for advancement within the medical field, and for increasing ones earning potential.

When there’s a strong job market, organizations need to do whatever they can to attract top candidates. This often means that starting salaries will be higher for industries with jobs in high demand. Given the current economic conditions, that’s less the norm these days, but it still happens in certain industries such as the medical field. Coming out of school with a highly sought after skill will enable a person to go into the market with negotiating power. According to a recent survey from the Society for Human Resource Management, 80 percent of HR professionals say employers are willing to negotiate salaries. A recent graduate of the nursing program named Catherine said, “I was offered a job as a labor and delivery nurse after graduating. I thought the proposed salary was decent, but I wanted a little more.

I went back to the

Secure Future HR rep and simply asked for a higher salary. Much to my surprise the H.R. rep came back with a two dollar per hour increase and a small sign-on bonus the very next day.”

The current recession is taking its effect across the nation, and having an education worthy of a high paying job will allow for security in the future. As the recession lingers, many workers have seen their incomes decline or even vanish, forcing them and their families to make do with much less. Most dread how the losses may affect their finances over the long term.

Many people are left wishing they had chosen a different trade or educational path that would have led to a more economically secure job.

In simple terms, what we know is that wages

and incomes fall during recessions, unless you work in an industry that is not affected so severely by the economy. There will always be sick people and a need for trained professionals to care for those sick people. The advancements in medical technology often provide ways to treat patients while lowering costs.

Amidst the economic crisis, salary freezes are becoming more prevalent. A February 2010 survey by Watson Wyatt Worldwide showed that 42 percent of companies have already put salary freezes into place. But one industry that was nearly unaffected by this was the medical field. Students at FCC have the ability to get the training needed to take advantage of this great opportunity securing a spot for future success.

The current economic slump has offered some unique lessons. As Photgraphy by jermey s. plumb wages have consistently become stagnant, more and more people tinue pursuing education and sharpening their have taken on excess debt to increase their skills. Making yourself invaluable to your standard of living. Hopefully this will have employer so that they see you adding value opened the eyes of students currently work- to their company is essential,” offered maring towards a career and helped them to re- keting director Robyn Sutton for University ally consider their options before making a Hospitals of Cleveland. The education and choice. The recession has shown people they the skills are available to students at Fresno can’t afford to be complacent. “Prospective City College, and there is no time like the employees need to be ready for something present to take advantage of the opportunity. important in the job market, and must con-

17

Fashion

Comfort vs. Style by sandra delgadillo

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t’s a guilty pleasure to flip through magazines to find out what the celebrities are wearing rather than being interested in what’s going on in today’s world. However, is it necessary to get dressed up if you’re only going to the 7-eleven down the street? Unless you’re Hayden Panettiere, or your picture is going to be splattered across millions of magazines, I think not. So why is it that people in society act as if it’s a sin to walk out of their house without doing their hair, or putting on their “lady-faces”?

“If I’m only going t why should I car giving my face a cha breathe when I’m n anywhere special. being comfortable than not and [comp about it.”

The reason is that we live in a world where looks mean everything and distinguish you as a person. Even some men wear make-up as well. Whether it’s to hide a blemish or just because it’s a trend, there are men out there wearing eyeliner and/or foundation for personal reasons.

Three students who rock their own personal style. If you dress to impress or for comfort, either way, all that matters is what look works for you.

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Melissa Ramirez a Fresno City College student had this to say, “It seems like we put a ton of effort to look nice everyday…even if we’re not going out.” So the question is why do we mainly choose style over comfort?

As you walk through the FCC campus you see various types of styles. With most females in schools today a backpack has been replaced by an oversized tote. With all the books and walking that must be done, you can’t imagine them not get-

ting tired. The sad truth is, they do but, they do it in the name of fashion. This is also true for those of us who practically wake up with make-up on our face. It may be a chilly Sunday afternoon and we’re just staying home yet, we still decide to wear our mascara, eyeliner, powder etc.

Another fellow FCC student defended why she chooses style over comfort. “I’d rather look good on the surface to hide how shitty I feel on the inside…” stated Felicia Johnson. “If I look good on the surface it makes it easier to [cope] because I have confidence.”

So could fashion be the answer to depression? Probably not, but many would like to argue that it does help to build your self-esteem. However, this could just be the mentality that we have. There are million of people who are forced to dress up to go to work, who would much rather be in sweats.

to school care? I like chance to not going . Besides e is better mplaining] ”

Take Kim Lake Waldron for example, a woman who works in an office and has a family of her own that somehow manages to fit school into her crazy schedule. “Imagine wearing these shoes all day,” She said as she pointed at her black 3-inch high heels. “They get so tiring by the end of the day.” Unlike some of us, she has to be properly dressed for a professional setting. Otherwise, it could very well cost Kim her job.

There are people that are just fine with their natural looks and staying comfy.

Ana Vasquez wears a sweats and a naked face as she makes this statement.

“If I’m only going to school why should I care? I like giving my face a chance to breathe when I’m not going anywhere special. Besides being comfortable is better than not and [complaining] about it.”

I envy anyone who can be this comfortable in a public setting and have it mean nothing to them. Being a woman myself, I know how exhausting high heels can be after a long day. I’ve had to sacrifice my feet, for twelve hours, by wearing 5-inch heels for my cousins Quinceañera. I take so much

time and consideration into what I’m going to wear, how I will style my hair and even what perfume I’ll be putting on. I get ready at least two-hours before I’m about to leave the house, and that’s only on school days.

The question still remains, why do we mainly choose style over comfort? Barbara Stone a former psychologist answered on the topic.

“The media [have] a lot to do with why several people believe ‘looking good makes you feel good’. Today’s society creates the illusion that by looking your best you’re going to receive the best of everything.”

Has society always cared about what they wore? “In the mid-twentieth century many

“I’d rather look good on the surface to hide how shitty I feel on the inside…”

“If I look good on the surface it makes it easier to [cope] because I have confidence.” designer names began to appear and people began caring who and what they had on. However, as for every person, there’s always a certain age where it matters if your pants go with that certain shirt or if those shoes are the right shade of red. This usually happens around your early teens.”

Stone goes on to say how magazines and TV shows play a big role in what we wear ,and for some, even how they act.

Then I wondered, does Barbara Stone care how she looks when out in public? “Honestly, I like looking very professional at all times. It makes me feel good and is even comfortable when I am away from work. It may be just a mentality that we have after all.”

Even if we take several hours or a couple of minutes, we choose to put on a different outfit everyday. Whether it’s to go to a party or school there’s a certain outfit we wear for that specific event. In the end you’re the one who decides. So will it be comfort or style?

photography by Tiffany Tonel

19

EATS

Auntee Boo & Cousin Drew

Stuff Waffles

By Tiffany Tonel Photography by abel cortez

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outh-watering. Crispy. Juicy. Flavorful. Never have I ever experienced such a tasty combination of fried goodness. Chicken and waffles isn’t a very popular dish in the central valley, but it is something you don’t want to miss out on.

Auntie Boo and Cousin Drew’s Stuff Waffle is the place to go to satisfy your craving for this popular soul food dish. The restaurant is only open on Sundays from 8am until 8pm. They are located in the Karsh’s Grill building at 609 Olive Street in the Tower District next to Typhoon.

This casual, low-key restaurant, with a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, is a great place to enjoy delicious food with friends and family. They serve chicken and waffles along with your choice of a side of fries, coleslaw, smothered potatoes, fried pickles, greens, scrambled eggs or mac n’ cheese tots. You can enjoy a piece of chicken breast or wings fried, grilled, or spicy. In addition, you can order either a plain, pear, vanilla, chocolate, cinnamon, or apple waffle covered in melted butter and syrup. Also,

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you can complete the meal with your choice of a tall glass of lemonade, sweet tea, milk, soda, coffee, tea or water. You can also get “stuff”, extras ranging from fruit to different sauces and syrups, in or on your waffle. You can even V.I.P. request anything you want to be prepared for you on the upcoming Sunday, just place the order by 5pm Friday.

waffles), go ahead and order a bowl of mac n’ cheese tots.

Not only was the food high quality, but also the service was first-rate. Although there were only two people, one working the front counter taking orders and serving the food and the other, an older woman, cooking the food in the back, the wait for the food was worth it. Being with a group of friends did make the time pass by faster. The guy serving the food was personable, friendly and helpful. He made all of us feel comfortable and at home in the restaurant. Even though there were many other people in the room, he made an effort to show us that we were important customers. The price of my meal was about $8. It wasn’t too bad because it was comparable to the food and service.

If you love to eat and have never experienced the sinfully deliciousness of chicken and waffles, you are missing out. It was such a great experience tasting this unique dish for the first time. The food was extremely appetizing and the service was good. I would definitely go back for more but maybe only once a month because I don’t want to see my waistline expand. If you have never eaten chicken and waffles before and want to experience deep fried heaven-on-earth, check out Auntie Boo and Cousin Drew’s Stuff Waffle located on Olive Ave in the Tower District.

I ordered the classic fried chicken breast with a cinnamon waffle. After taking one bite and tasting the deep fried crispness, I knew that this place was the real thing. The food was authentic and tasted homemade. No previous piece of fried chicken or waffle compared to the tasty meal I had that Sunday. As my friends and I were sitting there indulging in every bite, Big Drew, (one of the owners) walked over to our table with a fresh batch of mac n’ cheese tots. At first, these sounded like a good idea, but they were too much for me. I could only handle one bite of the fried cheesiness. If you want to increase your chances of having a heart attack (after inIt’s all about family for Auntie Boo (center) and Cousin Drew (right). Here dulging in the already deep fried chicken and they pose in front of Karsh’s Grill where the fried magic happens.

Tower Dogs Something to Bark About

By Sarah Myers Photography by mark anthony

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am a huge fan of late night eating. I am also a huge fan of breakfast. I am an even BIGGER fan of a local business that assembles my two favorite things for a couple of bucks out of my pocket. Biting into a polish dog topped with a fried egg and covered with golden hash browns at two o’clock in the morning was my idea of pure heaven.

I “sampled” (ok hoofed down) my sister’s Tower Boat, (think Frito boat on ‘roids) and absolutely loved the vegetarian chili. In a town where most folks settle on a fast food joint after 9pm, Tower Dogs is a great addi-

tion to the Fresno restaurant circuit for those looking for a quick lunch or late-night bite.

Tower Dogs opened in September of 2009 next door to the well-known Tower Theater, less than a mile from the FCC campus.

It is one of the only places in Fresno that offers a full menu of hot dogs and polish dogs. In addition, Tower Dogs offers vegan substitutes for any order. Two of the most popular menu items include the California Dog (topped with bacon, avocado, grilled onion, cheese, and brown mustard) and Steve’s Chili Dog (topped with chili, cheddar cheese, and onion). If you’re in the mood for something a little different try Chester’s Big

Bambino (think pizza dog) or the Last Call Dog (topped with a fried egg, hash browns, and your choice of nacho cheese or country gravy).

The food is moderately priced (around $5 including tax) and custom orders are always welcomed. To accommodate their growing business and offer more seating to customers, owners Steven Duquette and Susan Neville have planned to expand in the coming months, taking over the Tower Bike Shop next door. Make sure to bring an appetite and grab some napkins because this is the kind of food you’ll love stuff your face with!

Located in the heart of the Tower District, Tower Dogs is a good stop for a quick bite or a late night meal while out with friends.

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EATS

Smokey’s Grill

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hile thinking of what local restaurant to do an interview, I realized there was this little place called Smokey’s Grill right by my church. Smokey’s is located on 1342 Tulare Street. The major cross streets are Tulare and E Street. It’s downtown, or what we call Chinatown. Even though there aren’t many restaurants around that area that seem appealing, Smokey’s Grill is so different. As you walk in you could smell the barbeque pit going. The smell of smoked beef is so sweet. As you look around you can see the authenticity of the ownership. He has personalized this place so much. As you drive up, it seems to be this little hole in the wall, but don’t be mistaken, it is so much more.

Smokey’s Grill is one of the best restaurants that I’ve been to in a while. The food is great and so is the service. Their hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday 11 am to 7 pm.

My favorite thing to order there is the stir fry, I have never had stir fry like that before it has smoked tri tip, okra, cabbage, red and green peppers and a host of other delicious veggies.

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I love going there for the great food but the price of the food fits right with my wallet.

You get a lot of good food for a low price, there is a saying, and “you get what you pay for.” That is not the case at Smokey’s because you get WAY more than that! For a lunch serving of some stir fry and drink, you’ll end up paying like $5.00 and some change. Now days, you can’t even get a super sized value meal from a fast food restaurant for that amount let alone a soft drink to wash down those salty fries. While eating a planned out home cooked meal during the day is almost impossible for most people, Smokey’s is a great alternative! Why go out and pay double for a greased based burger and fattening fries, when you go to Smokey’s grill and order some delicious stir fry or a freshly grilled hamburger with all the fixings.

Smokey’ is so laid back, you just glide on in.

The different art work and pictures makes it stand out. While most places put up some modern art work, or what they call contemporary, Smokey’s has some of the most in-

By Jacqueline Garcia Photography by Frank Ramirez

teresting pieces. While the majority of the art work is paintings of the era when slavery was going on, it brings out the originality of what the people in those days went through. He has set the atmosphere of being relaxed and you see yourself somewhere in the south. The music flowing sets you up to just let go of the outside world and you anticipate of what’s your meal going to taste like. As you wait for your order, you can just taste the many different flavors flowing and the sweet smell of smoked meat just marinates your senses.

When you get your order, it’s so timely, there’s nothing to worry about. Like your food getting cold and wondering if it’s sitting out under a heating lamp. The barbeque is unique. You can only guess that’s there some type of secret recipe for the sauce. The meat on the ribs just falls apart, the steak fries are so huge and golden brown, it’s intense! So when you’re out driving around sand start to feel some hunger pains, just fly on by to Smokey’s Grill.

Lucy’s Lair

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xotic spices. Vegan-friendly. Out of the ordinary cuisine. Lucy’s Lair is a place that offers different and flavorful cuisine that you’ve never tasted before. For vegans and vegetarians, it offers an array of dishes that mixes up a common routine of taste and flavor. For everyone else, it offers a zesty selection of food that is eye opening to what else is out there.

The spices used to cook the vegetable and meat dishes are what set this place apart. My friend ordered a side of Kik Alitcha, a mild dish of yellow split peas slowly cooked in a tasty mild sauce with a blend of spices. I ordered a meat dish, the Doro Wot, which is a premier Ethiopian Ceremonial Dish. It is chicken marinated in lemon, sautéed in purified spiced butter and stewed in onions, garlic, fresh ginger, tomatoes, herbs and served with boiled eggs, salad, and yogurt on the side. You eat your meal using pieces of Injera to pick up bites. No utensils needed.

When dipped in the yogurt, the spiciness of the meat is set off by the dairy, which offers a nice balance of flavor. The spices were not overbearing. I have a low tolerance for spicy foods and I was able to enjoy my food without breaking a sweat.

By Tiffany tonel

photography by Tiffany Tonel

Ethiopian cuisine typically consists of spicy vegetable and meat dishes. It is cooked in the form of wot, which is a thick stew, and served atop Injera, which is a large flatbread made with Teff, wheat, millet, sorghum, and barley flour. Lucy’s Lair is vegan and vegetarian friendly. The menu offers the Vegan Delight for $12.95, which is your choice of 4 dishes served with Injera or rice. They also have an array of meat dishes served with Injera or rice.

The casual and relaxed ambiance of the restaurant is popular with the neighboring community. It is a low-key environment that offers a unique cuisine. The cozy and comfortable atmosphere is the perfect place to enjoy good food with good friends and is a nice place for a date because the ambiance allows for an intimate conversation. The décor reflects Ethiopian culture. Red drapes hang from the walls accented with tribal designs.

Bundles of wooden drums adorn each corner of the store, tying in the theme.

The service was excellent. The hostess who took our order showed us the right way to use the Injera to pick up our food. She was very helpful and genuinely wanted us to fully enjoy our experience at her restaurant. The service I received the first time I went there was just as good.

Lucy’s Lair is located in northeast Fresno on the corner of Maple and Behymer.

This fine Ethiopian Cuisine restaurant is open on Monday through Friday for lunch from 11-2 and in the evening from 5-9 pm. On Fridays the restaurant is open for dinner from 5-10 pm. On Saturday

it is open from 11-2 for lunch and 5-10pm for dinner. On Sundays it is only open for lunch from 11-2. There is no need to make reservations in advanced. I went on a Tuesday night at 8 and there was no wait.

Overall, my experience at Lucy’s Lair was wonderful. I walked in hungry and walked out filled but not stuffed. The food we had was excellent and it didn’t take a long time to prepare. The woman who helped us went out of her way to make sure we had a good visit. She was warm, friendly, welcoming, attentive and helpful. We were treated-well and taken care of. It is a great place to go with friends or with a date because you can enjoy a well-cooked authentic meal for under $15 and actually hear the voice of whoever accompanied you. Lucy’s Lair is an exotic, hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by anyone searching for a place to experience food unlike anything else in Fresno.

23

eats

Savor the Flavor of Yoshino’s

By Jeremy S. Plumb

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hrimp, Sushi, or Filet Mignon, whatever your particular taste is, you can find it all at Yoshino’s Teppan Yaki. The term Teppan Yaki, refers to a style of preparing Japanese cuisine using an iron griddle. It is derived from Teppan, which means iron plate, and Yaki, which means grilled or pan fried.

The restaurant features a low-lit casual ambiance and very talented chef’s that not only prepare amazing food, but do so right before your eyes while demonstrating their extraordinary skills with a knife and spatula. Yoshino’s is sure to be one of the best dining experiences for anyone looking for a friendly atmosphere, a little entertainment, and great food!

Yoshino’s offers a variety of different options to satisfy all of their customers. If you are just looking for a casual spot for a few drinks after a long day, you can drop in and hang out at the bar. For those of you who really enjoy sushi, Yoshino’s offers a delicious selection at their sushi bar. Customers who prefer more traditional dining can visit the main restaurant. But for those people who prefer something a bit more spectacular, the Teppan Yaki is a great way to go. Not only do you get a great meal, but you can sample the sushi bar or order drinks while you wait for your chef allowing you to experience a little bit of everything.

The menu features different choices including seafood, that has been voted Best in the Valley by the California Restaurant Association, and delectable steaks like Sukiyaki or Filet Mignon, each so tender that it literally melts in your mouth. Once your selection is made and your chef arrives, the feast begins with each member of your table receiving a little mustard sauce for your steak and some very tasty ginger sauce for your seafood and vegetables.

While you are waiting for the food to be prepared, you will start with a Teppan Yaki soup that offers a very uniquely flavored broth, and contains a few diced mushrooms and some thin Japanese noodles. Following the soup, is a delightful salad featuring Yoshino’s own creamy salad dressing that resembles Thousand Island dressing, but without the tanginess. Each entrée is served with Yoshino’s very appetizing fried rice and mouth-watering shrimp with diced vegetables that will leave you wanting more. But save room for the main course, as it something you won’t want to miss. No matter what you order, the food is sure to be exceptional and prepared the way you want it.

The halibut is luscious, the shrimp is incredible, and the Filet Mignon (my personal favorite) is magnificent. For a great appetizer I would recommend the Yaki Gyoza, which is an amazing Japanese dumpling stuffed with pork.

The chefs are extraordinarily talented and will fascinate you with their expertise and skill as they prepare your meal.

But don’t get too close as you watch in wonder, the flaming volcano may leave a few singed eyebrows! Yoshino’s is Fresno dining at its finest and it’s sure to leave anyone who experiences it with a savory taste they won’t soon forget.

Photography by abel cortez

IntenseCity Magazine

Las Cazuelas Restaurante by sandra delgadillo

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tortilla chips and homemade salsa. On the menu you will find many traditional Mexican plates such as; mouthwatering carne asada steak with beans covered in melted cheese, Mexican rice, salad, and your choice of flour or corn tortillas. If you’re looking for a quick fix, I recommend you try the Bertha Special which contains a quesadilla cut into six slices stuffed with juicy shredded beef, cheese, and sautéed veggies, and sour cream where all the pizza-like slices meet. This appetizer is to die for! I cannot express how delicious the shredded beef served here tastes. It’s something you have to try for yourself. Short on cash? Ask for the Super Nachos, their delicious seasoned tortilla chips accompanied with flavorsome carne asada, beans, guacamole, sour cream, and tomatoes all smothered in cheese, it is enough to fill up two people instantly.

local, family-owned restaurant that has been around for 20 years is the place to dine-in or take-out if you’re looking for real authentic Mexican food.

Relocated near our very own Fresno City College campus, on the corner of Princeton and Blackstone, is Las Cazuelas Restaurante. With owner and head chef, Miguel Lopez, you can expect great quality food without all the excess grease and deepfrying you might find elsewhere.

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner you want, Las Cazuelas is here to serve. Even if you’re an on-thego type of person, you can make an order by calling (559)237-8448 and picking up your order at 2755 N. Blackstone Ave. Fresno, CA 93703.

Las Cazuelas was first located on the east side of Fresno in the late 80’s. They recently relocated to Blackstone.

Their new location makes them more visible and gives them more room for customers. Even with a new location, their food is still as appetizing as ever and their hours remain the same. Sunday through Friday, they open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturdays 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The restaurant’s atmosphere is filled with a Mexican theme. Your taste buds are sure to get turned on as soon as you get a whiff of their savory food. As you sit at your table you can hear a radio playing Mexican music in the kitchen, resembling many restaurants in Mexico. full menu of Mexican dishes sure to satisfy.

If you have ever been to Mexico, you know exactly what I am talking about. This restau- As soon as you enter the restaurant you are rant is almost a little piece of Mexico with a seated and given a menu, along with seasoned

own

at

Las Cazuelas is looking forward to providing great food and service to you. If you haven’t eaten there yet, you must try it. The food is amazing and the people are friendly. I’ve been a regular before I could afford food for myself, and to this very day I have not once left unpleased. Get your mouth ready to have a feast of its Las Cazuelas Restaurante.

Photography by abel cortez

25

Features

By judy thao

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t’s that time again! A new semester with new instructors that may or may not be the greatest. What can be done to find out who the instructor is before having any regrets? There are several ways to find dirt on instructors: gossip, asking students, friends and family. How about trying RateMyProfessors.com, a website created to assist students in finding the best rated instructors available at their college. Students are able to make their own decision on which instructor to choose based on past student’s opinions.

Many college students begin the semester with no idea what to expect from the instructor. Thus the student must wait for that first day in class to find out what the instructor is going to be like, how the instructor will teach, more importantly if he is the right instructor for the student. Some students have stayed in a class they believed they were enrolled in and suddenly found out that they were dropped at the end of the semester. I’ve had the experience of sticking around and hoping that the teacher would get easier and it turned out that it wasn’t going to happen, and this information was already posted about the professor on RateMyProfessors.com beforehand. A great way to find out when to get out before it is already too late to turn back.

Even with a handful of professors chosen from the site, there’s bound to be one who will not meet up to the student’s expectations. It is up to the students using the site to remember that not all the information is accurate, after all these are the opinions of many students combined. Youa Yang had taken an African American Studies course under the impression that the professor would be easygoing.

However, he turned out to be the opposite of

IntenseCity Magazine

what she had expected. She came to discover that he was much “too strict and too loud.”

providing him with the quality education that he is paying for and deserves. Other students like, Alexander Xiong uses the site to check Users, such as Tha Xiong, have used the web- up on present and past professors “to see site and realized that although the website is how the professors are,” in hopes of finding “not really accurate” he continues to use the the “easy ones” for the upcoming semester. site in search for the professors capable of

Which brings up this question, who does rate?

Many students who rate are rating on a personal level more so than a professional level.

If a teacher gives the student that easy A they get the good ratings; while the professor handing out more Ds and Fs than A’s are getting the bad ratings. Although the instructor may be getting a good average on easiness, how about checking the other qualities available: clarity and helpfulness?

professors may not want to admit it, but they do go onto RateMyProfessors.com. Mrs. McCafferty is an English professor here on campus who admits to having been on the site to help her students. Her thought is that if the student feels “passionate” enough to submit a response and a rating then it should be heard. This site is just as useful to instructors, as well as students. Consider this

When posting up ratings one should consider whether they are being critical or constructive.

Remember that RateMyProfessors.com is not only a site that is accessible by students but instructors as well. This is a site where many will be able to find information on their instructors within the United State, Britain, and Canada. In the cases where a professor is not

There are many students who take into consideration what is said about the instructors on RateMyProfessors.com and in return give their little two cents on the teacher. Ratsamy Xayavong uses the site to look up her potential professors to find the one that would suit her best. Her experiencedwith RateMyProfessor.com has been good. As for rating a professor, she’s done that too! When a professor “was so great” she decided that she “wanted everyone to know. Or everyone who reads it.” The information that Xayavong has put on RateMyProfessors.com about her professor will help many future student to come to find out what and who they should possibly take.

Denisha Grissom, a freshman, is currently in her second semester here at Fresno City College and has no idea which instructor she should be taking for her courses. Without prior knowledge of this site, she had been taking teachers at random and hoping that they won’t be too difficult and boring. So far she has yet to have any issues with any of her professors.

Now that Grissom has learned about the site she won’t have to sign up for just “any teacher” that is teaching the course she needs to take.

before coming to a conclusion as to which professor to choose. What’s your criteria for a good teacher? Is it somebody who doesn’t make you work at all? Or is it somebody who makes you work and you learn a lot so you’re more prepared for the next class?

on the site for that school, students could easily add in their name in hopes for others to leave feedback. Regardless of what age or year you are in college this site will be able to help you come to a conclusion. When debating on which professor you could possibly choose remember to put into considerTeachers are rated by many students who feel ation what is best for you as a student. Not that what they think about the professor is rath- every teacher will be as amazing or as horer important. Obtaining ratings from students rible as other students have put them out to be.

Not only do students get something out of it, who are upset for a grade can be crucial to but the professors themselves as well. Many the professor who is receiving the bad ratings.

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n today’s media- engulfed world, one would think that a new micro-blogging service is less than revolutionary. Twitter however, has managed to become that very thing in less than 3 years.

Avid Twitter users include major corporations, pop stars, Hollywood heavyweights, and even many Fresno City College students. The appeal for many users is the short, concise, and direct commu nication to whoever may be following or just checking out what they have to say. A user is limited to just 140 characters, forcing them to have a straight-to-the-point mentality when composing messages for all to see.

FEATURES While most people have favorable opinions about Twitter, some journalists see it as a detriment to their line of work. The reason for this sentiment is that it has major potential to spread false, and often ridiculous, rumors across the web in a matter of minutes. For example, in January 2010 a popular topic of discussion on Twitter was that actor Johnny Depp had perished in a horrific car accident while in France. Johnny Depp was in France at the time, but was never involved in any sort of accident. The false information was quickly debunked by his agent. Critics fail to see purpose in a system that provides little to no fact checking on breaking news events. In an article published by the New Zealand Herald, a reporter expresses deep concern over the acceptance of tweets as fact:

“But, truthfulness remains the biggest problem: Those direct, near-instantaneous dispatches are far less reliable than old-fashioned journalism. News that circulates on Twitter, re-tweeted from person to person, can spread quickly - often too quickly for it to be verified.”

Ironically, almost every major news network has created a Twitter account in order to keep up with the site. One might say that a love-hate relationship exists between Twitter and some of these major news outlets. The networks do not want to fall behind in breaking news to the world quickly, so they use Twitter as a tool to reach their audience quickly.

Such was the case in June 2009, during the Iranian presidential election. When incumbent Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was re-elected to a second term in office, supporters of the opposition wasted no time in disputing the election. Their claim was that not all of the votes were counted and that many of the opposition votes were simply thrown out.

Anger mounted quickly, as did the violent protests. Many young opposition supporters used Twitter to organize massive protests in the streets of Tehran, the Iranian capitol.

The appeal of Twitter in this instance was that messages could be spread faster than any other medium.

Twitter uses two different networks to disperse messages, both the internet and text messaging. This is what gave protestors the upper hand in quickly organizing such massive protests. Almost certainly, the protests would have still occurred without the aid of Twitter and other social networking sites. However, it was because of these websites that the protests were bumped into the international spotlight so quickly.

CNN was harshly criticized by Twitter users for the lack of coverage provided initially, and #cnnfail quickly became a trending topic. Using a hash mark in a tweet is a way for tweets to be tagged.

If a user wanted to search for tweets relating to a specific topic, they would only need to search

for the tagged phrase. Not long after coming under fire, CNN began airing extensive coverage of the protests in Iran and the disputed election.

Once the Iranian government realized that several nations were becoming sympathetic to the protestors, they banned all foreign media from covering the events.

In addition, the government began blocking Twitter and text messaging services in order to keep foreigners from following the opposition supporters online.

In addition to news and social media, Twitter has become a powerful public relations tool. Southwest Airlines, has used

the incident, most of which include quotes straight from Smith’s Twitter page. Since Smith has thus far declined all interview requests, journalists are using his tweets as source material for their articles.

In addition to the aforementioned Twitter users, the average person may also see purpose in this microblogging service. As predicted, finding a Twitter user on the city college campus was all but difficult. FCC student Adrian Ammsso, who has been using Twitter since January 2009 says, “Twitter keeps me connected to my friends and I feel like it has brought me closer to the celebrities I follow.” The first year business major also says, “It’s fun to see what everyone is thinking about or doing throughout their day.”

Despite Twitter’s phenomenal popularity and potential to bring in a large revenue stream, they say that there are no plans to sell to any other companies although many have made offers.

In an interview with The New York Times, Fred Wilson, an early investor in the micro-blogging site says, “Twitter has now reached a scale that most of the larger media companies — whether traditional or Internet media companies — are starting to think, ‘We need to have a Twitter strategy.’” Wilson continues, “All the people you’ve heard of and more are coming to Twitter saying, ‘We want to do something with you.’”

Kevin Smith’s TwitPic directed at Southwest Airlines after he was kicked off of an airplane for being “too large to fly.”

Twitter to inform potential customers of events that may impact their experience with the airline or for promotional purposes. Most recently, Kevin Smith, a famous comedic film director, took to Twitter to vent his frustration with the airliner claiming to have been thrown off of a flight because he was too large to fit in one seat. One of his tweets read:

“Hey @SouthwestAir! Look how fat I am on your plane! Quick! Throw me off!”

The tweet was accompanied by a cell phone image of him sitting in one of their planes. Several of Smith’s fans also expressed outrage on Twitter by sending direct messages to Southwest. The airliner used their own Twitter account to do some damage control, tweeting:

“I’ve read the tweets all night from @thatkevinsmith- He’ll be getting a call at home from our Customer Relations VP tonight.”

News of Smith’s not so pleasant experience with Southwest eventually made headlines, as did his tweets. Hundreds of articles have been written since

A few months after that interview, search giants Google and Bing entered into their own respective deals with Twitter, which allows search results to include tweets made by users in real-time.

Interestingly, when Twitter was incepted in 2006, many high school and college students were less than enthused about the service. Both MySpace and Facebook had millions of student users, yet Twitter took a while to grow. It was perceived by many as just a boring micro-blogging website that didn’t hold a candle to the many features that other social networking sites offered. While not very much has changed with the features offered on Twitter, the amount of total users has. There are an estimated 30 million users on Twitter worldwide, and there are no signs of it slowing down. As the number of Twitter users, or “Twitterati” as they are also called, continues to increase so will corporate interest in the service. The next time you make a trip to the mall and the cashier bags up your purchase, take a look at the receipt or at the bag itself. You are almost guaranteed to find the phrase, “Follow us on Twitter.” Not only is Twitter leading the revolution in the ways we communicate with each other, but it is also revolutionizing the way that huge corporations reach their target audiences. Just as magazines were revolutionary, both as advertising and social media, Twitter is proving to be just as powerful; perhaps even more so.

29

Features

Technology Gets Personal

by Kim lake waldron

W

hen was the last time you Twittered someone? Four hours spent on Myspace checking in with friends and seeing who’s been doing what with who in the last few days can go by in an instant. Most of us go to our computers to connect with friends instead of using our phones. How else can a person have 541

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friends in one place? Cyberspace relationships are the norm for many students. Skeptics of this cyber reality say it is degrading our abilities to relate with society on an interpersonal level. There are of course, two sides to every story. Most of us use the Web for anything under the sun. If we want to see a movie, find a place to eat or get in touch with a friend, we

go to the Web before we call on the phone.

The convenience of the Web is amazing. This is where the critics start yelling. These critics feel that the constant use of cyberspace as a way to communicate with each other loses some important factors of the social atmosphere. Social interaction includes hearing, sight, touch,

smell, taste, and body language. When we talk to someone, we get many messages from them just by their tone of voice, body language and facial expressions. These actions give us almost as much information as the words we hear. A tender expression, the sound of concern in a voice, and eye contact cannot possibly be experienced over the internet As with anything we do, without regular practice, the act can become unfamiliar and uncomfortable.

There is a possibility that much can be lost when we communicate via the internet. But is it really lost? Most Web users don’t agree.

internet. Typing out what we want to say gives us a chance to think it out first (in most cases).

It leaves us with a record of our communication that we can look back on and keep. This cannot be done in a face to face conversation.

Words are easily lost along with their meaning when we are speaking. So who’s to say our communication suffers when done through the Web?

There is no shortage of communication between friends on social networking sites.

Many times a day, people constantly check their cyber networks to connect with friends online.

When you communicate over the internet, We play games, share pictures, talk about our it enables you to talk to many friends at one feelings, and share our lives with many at a time. time. If there is a big party happening this Friday you can get on your Myspace page Networking sites are winand send the message out to your friends. It dows into our lives, so to speak. is sometimes easier to communicate over the Let’s not forget to continue maintaining personal relationships with people we see in person. For example, a person can go too far in their cyber reality practices, my teenage daughter, is into texting, and social networking, and texts me goodnight, every night. My son, who has a cell phone with free minutes, rarely calls first and prefers texting instead of phone conversations now.

Couldn’t many things be said in a lot less time, if we just made a quick phone call?

We should maintain a healthy balance of cyber and true one on one communication, whether it is by phone or in person. This balance is important to keep our personal relationships healthy and well-rounded. With out face to face social contact, our relationships will lose an important aspect of our social communication.

Recent world crisis’ were tracked better on Facebook and Twitter than on formal news media, providing information with up to the minute reports from devastated areas. Having the opportunity to receive valid information directly from a common person, in the midst of newsworthy events, is an asset for society to enjoy. We don’t have to wait for reports to be aired, and we are spared any slant on the news of the event due to media affiliations and so on.

The benefits of social media far outweigh the negatives when you take into consideration information from both sides.

We should continue to use Facebook, Myspace, and Twitter to stay in touch with our friends and family. Never before have we had such an opportunity to socialize with so many at a moment’s notice. The internet has made the world a ‘Global Village’ in which everyone belongs.

31

Features

Digital Consumption by karina ornelas

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stated, “Across America, young people have abandoned traditional news.” Mindich, who is a Professor and chair of the journalism and mass communication department at Saint Michael's College, agrees with many others who have researched the topic. One of whom is Dr. Susan Currie Sivek, a Fresno State Journalism instructor with a PhD in Journalism from University of Texas in Austin. “One big difference is that we don’t have a few news sources; today we have all kinds of variety that makes young people not pay attention to newspapers,” Dr. Sivek said. These days, one news source is simply not enough. News media has always Television, film, and life in general have al- been around, for hundreds of years, but the ways portrayed ‘normal people’ reading way we absorb it has changed drastically withnewspapers every morning while drinking in the past few years due to the explosive hype coffee. However, not many of us actually do of online sources and social networking sites. it. There just aren’t enough of us reading the morning paper to generally say that we, as Most of us in high school or college prefer onyoung Americans, read the paper daily. In his line sources easily accessed through our cell book, “Tuned Out: Why Americans Under 40 phones at any given time. Many of us don’t Don’t Follow the News”, David T. Z. Mindich want or feel we need to experience print news-

olitical Science research shows that people less than 30 years old don’t follow politics, not even formal news media; like newspapers. Political Science instructor at Fresno City College, Sarbjit Johal, said that young Americans aren’t interested in public policy issues and don’t watch broadcast TV news shows. “If they do find out about political topics, it is through what are called ‘soft news formats’, such as Dateline,” Johal said.

This makes researchers wonder what short term and long term consequences will be for politics, journalism, and society in general.

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papers at all. While a small group of young Americans today do read print newspapers, they’re overshadowed by the larger group of those that don’t. It’s brought on by our generation having grown up with unimaginable amounts of digital gadgets that do serious multi-tasking. Although this makes us increasingly rely on digital forms of media for pretty much everything, everyone should realize that digital media sources actually get young Americans participating in general information gathering. With the high-tech capabilities we have in today’s most popular cell phones, it’s easy and convenient to just access the internet. Without these different outlets of digital media, how informed would we all be? Would we even be informed at all? That is the general idea of Fresno State’s Dr. Sivek.

Young Americans tend to instead, pay attention to blogs. Anyone can be a blogger and post without caring or being affected by who’s actually reading and why. There’s always the

uncertainty of who a blogger really is because they have no way of certifying what they report. Many young Americans read them thinking they are legitimate news sources only because they are online, when in reality it could just be the tenth version of some true event across the country. That is the underlying problem with blogs and it would be nearly impossible to weed out unauthorized blog sites from certified ones. The big question now, is if this will reap disastrous effects for the future of our young generation, or if we’ll be able to build something good with it and make it into a positive advantage. The way we consume news today doesn’t make it easy for media sources providing news in the first place because they are no longer our first choice for news information. It makes the people involved with the forgotten news media forms worry about one day finally becoming extinct.

Now, with the evolvement of steady and reliable online news sources like big mainstream sites – MSNBC, CNN - print newspapers are trying to jump on that bandwagon to survive.

One way they are doing so is by offering an online version of their newspaper; some are even starting to experiment with charging fees for online subscriptions. Media sources realize that young students flock to news websites that update regularly as news is actually happening, such as Twitter. They also realize that it’s a great disadvantage they have as print newspapers. There is no way to make your opinion be heard right at the moment you read an article in a newspaper. There’s no way you can leave a “footprint” of your thoughts on the piece. Online news sources have more immediacy than any other form in the field.

This is not just a trend or a phase either. The age of digital news consumption is here to stay. Will today’s youth read newspapers tomorrow when they become the older generation of the time? Mindich suggests that today’s generation will never rely on print newspapers nearly as much. Since we, as young Americans, deal with digital sources every day, we will not go back to traditional forms of media. If we didn’t grow up with newspapers, we will never be interested in making it a part of our lives, later on. As FCC political science instructor, Sarbjit Johal, said, “The young will only find out about the large amount of public debt when they hit their mid to late 50s, many of years from now. They may then say they were hoodwinked by the older generation, but they will have only themselves to blame because of their inattention.”

photography by Frank ramirez

33

Features

By Sandra Delgadillo

W

arning: Once something has been sent through a wireless device, it is no longer private. Imagine if that popped up every time someone tried sending a risquĂŠ picture of themselves through the web. Would anyone reconsider

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what they were about to do, or simply ignore it and press the send button anyway? Sexting has been spreading World-Wide-Wev over the past two years. Sexts are nude or seminude pictures that are sent, posted or received through a cell phone or the World-Wide-Web. With all the technology we now have, it’s easy for a sext to fall into the wrong hands and spread like wild fire. However, sexting is

now more popular than ever and is catching the attention of authorities in some states. In fact, a minor may now be charged with a felony for child pornography for sending one.

So does all the negative publicity surrounding this subject mean sexting is bad? Not necessarily, but whoever is participating in the sexting needs to be fully informed of the possible

consequences. In the heat of the moment, people may think that nothing really matters, but what happens when that intense feeling wears off and you realize that you may have made one of the most ignorant decisions of your life? Once it’s sent, there is no going back.

The dangers of sexting have its price, and sadly for some it may even include a felony.

Anyone under the age of eighteen is considered a minor. With that being said, how many minors do you know that have already committed a felony? How many of those juveniles have a felony for child pornography?

The courts are now beginning to respond to this trend with an iron fist and a no toleration policy. If an adolescent sends a sext of themselves they can be charged with a felony for possession of child pornography regardless of it being their own picture. Still, these young adults don’t give much thought to what they are sending or posting through cyberspace.

me as much as I wanted him,” she explains.

“Then one day he accused me of cheating and decides to break up with me. It all came as a shock and completely out of nowhere.

I didn’t even know how to react to the situation since I had been faithful all along. About a week into our breakup my friends started telling me how everyone was saying what a “slut” I am and that I just wanted attention since [Jake] didn’t want me anymore.

I was even getting weird text messages and emails from guys I’ve never met that wanted to hook up for a one-night stand.” She then goes on to say. “It wasn’t until my friend called me and told me to log onto MySpace that everything began to make sense. There in my inbox folder, I [saw] my naked body [set as the main picture of a MySpace profile]. I instantly clicked on the link and was taken to an account that had all of the sexts I had sent [my ex].

He even posted my number and email which explained all the weird messages and phone calls. He added over 500 people in less than a month.”

“Some random guy sent me [sexts] of his butt and abs. I showed the pictures to my friend...”

“I had a boyfriend of about a year. And throughout our whole relationship he would ask me to send him nude pictures of myself. I never hesitated and did as I was asked.

He assured me he would never show anyone and I wanted him to want me as much as I wanted him.”

Tw e n t y - t w o percent of teen girls and 18% of teen boys have posted nude/ semi-nude photos of themselves (NBC News).

An anonymous student shared their experiences with sexting and how it completely thrashed their reputation.

“I had a boyfriend of about a year. And throughout our whole relationship he would ask me to send him nude pictures of myself. I never hesitated and did as I was asked. He assured me he would never show anyone and I wanted him to want

course for some. As unusual as it may seem, virgins are the biggest targets when it comes to sexting. They are inexperienced and some feel more comfortable sending provocative pictures of themselves rather than doing the real thing. They may not be willing to perform, but are very willing to pose.

This is only one of many examples on the dangers of sexting. However, this is very common in our generation. It’s almost as if a sexual evolution occurred as soon as camera phones were invented. Now days, it’s more acceptable to have sexual relationships without getting married first. A simple sext is just as satisfying as having actual inter-

Thirty-three percent of teen boys and 25% of teen girls say they have seen nude/seminude images of others originally meant to be private (NBC News). “Some random guy sent me text of his butt and abs. I showed the pictures to my friend,” stated FCC student Justin Garcia. “I didn’t make a report because it was just funny at the time.”Another FCC student Isabel Lopez said she’s never received a sext, but has seen one. “My roommate showed me and the rest of our roommate’s very explicit pictures of a guy she met online.” So what do these two stories have in common? They involve people who have been exposed to the dangers of sexting.

Fortunately, there are still people that would rather just keep it on the down low. “I have gotten them before, but, that’s not my thing though.” Alfonso Velez chuckled. “It wouldn’t seem right to pass around something that was meant for my eyes only. It’s kind of normal to receive sexts today. My friends brag about the sexts they get.” If only everybody had the same state of mind there wouldn’t be as much to worry about, but, that’s only in a perfect world. The anonymous student also added, “If I could reverse time and stop myself from ever sending those pictures, I would. All I can do now is share my story and advise people not to do it. All it takes is one snap and click.

It’s just that easy to throw your’ rep away and get lost in the big black hole of the internet.”

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health

How I Lost 90 Pounds

By Jeremy S. Plumb

that had inevitably consumed me.

It was early April 2009 and I had just come from my doctor’s office where he had given me the news that I was a pre-diabetic.

Basically it meant that my blood sugars were abnormally high and had been for several months. I was informed that I needed to be medicated to help control my glucose levels or lose the weight and gain control myself and forego the drug therapy. Among the high sugars were other problems associated with my weight. My liver enzymes were elevated and so was my cholesterol (all of which increase the risk of stroke and heart attack). I decided to try and tackle the problem without the drugs because I knew that it was in my best interest and that there was a history of heart disease in my family.

N

Photography by j.s. plumb

o surgery, no expensive boxed meals, and no miracle diet pill!

When I began my quest to become healthier I weighed in at 284 pounds. I was depressed a great deal of the time, always tired, and lacked the motivation to do anything for myself physically. What I didn’t realize at the time was that the ability to change it all was within my grasp. It started with making the decision to regain control of my life and put an end to the sadistic vortex

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When it came to actually making the changes, it was easier said than done. The first 4 - 8 weeks were very difficult, and training myself to eat less was especially hard. I was hungry all of the time. After approximately one month, I decided to see a doctor who specialized in weight loss. He gave me an appetite suppressant to help get me through the next month. The supplement was not a permanent remedy, but rather a short-term fix to allow me the necessary time to gain control of the problem. This did two important things for me. First, it allowed me to get through my day without feeling constantly hungry. Second, it helped increase my energy level making the exercise a bit easier.

It is important to remember that any time you

use any type of supplement that you should do so under the direction of your physician.

The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “diet,” is frustration. How many of us have tried and failed on numerous diets only to end up right where we started, or worse, heavier? Just about everyone has done this in some form. Diets are not permanent weight loss remedies. Most people think that you can go without eating for a few weeks or even change the kind of foods you eat for a month or two and keep the weight off. This is a myth! Even if you are able to shed a few pounds, they will almost always find their way back and sometimes with a few additional pounds. Diets don’t work long-term. As soon as you go off the diet, you are no longer doing whatever it was to help you lose the weight and more often than

not, people return to old habits. Permanent a bicycle as an alternate mode of transportachange requires a modification in lifestyle. tion can save you money, and can increase your vitality. It is a great form of exercise.

What is a lifestyle change? Changing the way you do just about everything is considered a lifestyle change. What I mean by this is that you will have to not only make healthier choices in the foods you eat, but also eat less of it. Portion sizes are a big reason why so many people have a hard time being successful with diets. It doesn’t matter how healthy you are eating if you devour the entire veggie tray in one sitting. The number of calories you eat every day should not greatly exceed the amount of calories that you burn. One secret I have learned in my pursuit to becoming healthier is that apple cider vinegar actually blocks over a quarter of the carbohydrates you eat from converting into glucose which could be stored as fat, and you can get it in tablet form at your local pharmacy or at GNC. Because of my pre-diabetic state, I gave up sugar almost completely. Although there is no Exercise is essential. You need a way to shed possible way you can really not have sugar the calories that you consume. Walking or jog- in your diet, you can significantly decrease ging is a great way to do this. “According to the amount you take in. Natural sugars in the latest joint American Heart Association/ fruits are actually good and can increase your American College of Sports Medicine guide- ability to recall and retain information. It is lines on physical activity, all healthy adults ages known as “sweet memories.” The sugars you 18–65 should be getting at least 30 minutes want to stay away from are the refined sugof moderate intensity activity five days of the ars found in foods such as cakes, cookies, and week” (americanheart.org). What this means candy. Something many people don’t know is that your heart rate should be above 120 is that this type of sugar can also be found in beats per minute for 30 consecutive minutes breads, juice, crackers, and most peanut butwhile exercising. Walking around campus all ters. Drinking a sufficient amount of water is day does help but in and of itself isn’t enough. one of the best ways to combat hunger. It does The 30 consecutive minutes is important. The not contain any of the potentially harmful subactual intensity of the exercise varies for ev- stances that soft drinks do, not to mention the eryone. For me it is running 3 miles each day, enormous amounts of sugar. Drinking a lot of and for someone else it could be something as water will flush out toxins from your system simple as riding their bicycle to work. Riding as well as help you feel fuller, decreasing your

appetite. Drinking one full glass of water before each meal will help you keep your appetite under control and will keep you hydrated.

Snacks are actually okay! It is good to have something to snack on throughout the day in-between meals. I find that nuts, such as almonds or cashews are a good snack as well as grapes or an apple. Nuts are very good for you. Nuts have a significant amount of protein, healthy fat, and dietary fiber, all three of which can increase your feeling of fullness and the length of time it takes to get hungry again.

When you’re feeling full, you tend to eat less throughout the day, which can lead to weight loss. Even savoring a snack of 30 almonds or cashews may be enough to curb your appetite when hunger strikes. It has been shown in various studies that people who eat nuts tend to have lower amounts of body fat. You will want to be careful not to consume more than necessary however, as nuts are moderately high in calories.

Taking control of your life is completely within your hands. I never said it would be easy, but I promise that it will be worth it. I have not had a single high blood sugar, high liver enzyme, or high cholesterol blood test in more than seven months and I feel better than I have in a decade. There is something very satisfying in shopping for new clothes every few months because you keep shrinking into the size below. Since I have started to change my habits I have lost an astonishing 13 inches from around my midline and 7 inches in my waist. I once read a quote from an actor, who I can’t recall, that said “nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.” I now know what that means and I can tell you that it is more than just feeling good. It is about taking care of your body so that it can take care of you.

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health

Veganism

(Part 1 of 2)

by ben fierro

T

he desires that we crave each day blind us from what the truth really is. One thing that most of us tend to desire are meats and other animal products. However, there are people who choose to see the truth rather than ignore it. That group of people could be classified as our Vegan population.

and their own flesh among other things. While we cherish these things because we find them tasty, we forget that there are two sides to this story. To get our grub on, something has to die in order for that to happen. Most people do not care what happens as long as they eat, and these types of procedures go unnoticed.

completely unethical and should not be tolerated. Basically, if we don’t want pain to be inflicted on ourselves, we shouldn’t dish it out to animals or any other living thing. A normal person would not kill another human being to eat them, so why should we kill animals?

The vegan population is not very big, with a There are those that choose not to eat meat, Trung Tran is the owner of local restaurant 2002 CNN poll stating that only 0.2 percent and we call them vegetarians. Then there are Au Lac Vegetarian Café and has also been a of the American population were vegans.

However, the fight to change those who tend to take it to the world’s perspective is a the next level are Vegans. struggle. The fight to help the Not only do Vegans not eat cause is on the rise and there meat, they do not take part are more people joining it each in anything that has to do day. Many people are beginwith an animal. Some exning to realize that Veganism amples would be not eatis something more than just a ing dairy products or weartitle, and the fight moves on. ing any types of leather or wool. Some of us might The animal rights group PETA, think that this is something an outspoken group to try and that seems ridiculous. Howprotect animals has done their ever, looking at it from their part to help the cause. Accordperspective, what makes ing to the PETA website, they veganism so desirable? have launched a program, in which they ask people to sign There are many reasons why up and try to be vegan for a people decide to become year, since this is a serious matvegan. One reason may be ter for PETA. If you decide to food allergies, and other sign up for this program, they health related issues. However, there is a far greater reason than any of Vegan for the last 14 years. When he thinks of will help you find the best places to eat, recithose two. They believe that all the products we the idea of people wanting to harvest and kill pes to try and also quick and easy things to consume from these animals, is nothing more animals, the only thing that comes to mind is snack on. Instead of just forcing people into than a form of animal cruelty. By choosing to ignorance. “You have to look at it from the an- veganism, this is a way to get them more inbe Vegan, they have decided that they will not imal’s perspective. You wouldn’t want to be volved and taking a step in the right direction. stand by and let animals be treated that way. harmed, cut up or tortured, so why should these Their desire to not harm animals and that they animals be?” Trung makes a very good point. Just like anything else, when deciding to should be free is what fuels them every day. According to Dr. Andrew Linzey of Oxford change your life from one extreme to the University animals have all of the things that next, it cannot happen overnight. You must Animals are enslaved and slaughtered each humans’ posess. They have use of the five take many things into consideration and year so that we can to consume milk, eggs, senses just like humans and also feel pain like gradually ease into it. Most of the people humans would. To inflict pain on an animal is that are now vegans did not just decide to

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put down a chicken leg and go cold turkey the next day. They started off as vegetarians and gradually eased their way into it.

While visiting the Au Lac Vegetarian Café located near FCC, I encountered a man named John who was having lunch. Just like many other vegans, he started off vegetarian. The first few years he started to give up meat, he was a pretty strict vegetarian. He told me that although it was a choice for him to give up meat, it is difficult to give up many other products. “The hardest thing for me to give up was cheese. I really couldn’t do it because I put cheese on everything.” However he was able to overcome the craving for cheese and is now a full-time vegan.

Although it was very difficult, he credits some of his good friends, who at the time were hardcore vegans. “If you’re going to stand up and say that animals should not be treated

that way, you might going without water;if it’s not there they will as well do it right.” die. However, if they decided to embrace the diet, they may not die, but actually live longer The right way to do lives. Tran informed me that since he has been it is to cut out every- a vegan, he has changed about him. He feels thing that has to do like he has more energy and has become more with animals. As I active. The most surprising thing about that, stated earlier, wheth- is in the last 14 years as a vegan, he has never er it’s the stuff you gotten sick. “Being a vegan and not injecteat or the clothing, ing those poisons into your body, allows your nothing can be from body to be cleansed and makes you feel great.” an animal. This is the main reason why Despite all of the reasons that veganmany people decide ism seems to be healthier lifestyle for you to become vegans. and could help prolong your life, there Being a vegetarian are still many skeptics. They feel the is only the tip of the vegan diet is more harmful than helpful. iceberg. Like John said, standing up for Having the label of Vegan tagged to you doesn’t animals rights means mean in any way that you are a healthier perprotecting the whole son. As with any type of diets or eating habits, idea that they are if you do not eat a balanced healthy diet, that treated unfair. Wheth- could lead to being unhealthy. For example, er it’s for their milk foods such as Oreos and soda are considered or for their meat, the vegan products. If you were to eat that every whole idea is wrong day, Vegan or not, you would not be very healthy and vegans take and in some ways worse off than you were. this universal stand.

According to an arti- Many of you may read this article and cle from E Magazine throw it aside, thinking I am just as craentitled “Cheeseless and Loving It,” the vegan zy as vegans themselves, or that most of diet is the best choice for health, and the envi- you can’t try this because it’s too hard. ronment…” With that being said, how could a person take out great sources of protein such as Following this article I document the gradumeat and still live a healthier life? Without pro- al the cessation of my consumption of meat tein from meat or eggs and calcium from things and dairy products and subsequently besuch as milk, many people feel welose esen- come a strict vegan for a whole month. tialvitamins and nutrients that we need to live.

Now, my purpose of this experiment is not What many people don’t realize is that there to try and convert all of you to Veganism. are other foods from which you can get all My purpose is to show that changing around these nutrients and more. There are many al- your diet and eating healthier can help you ternatives such as drinking soy milk or eating in the long run. I would also like to show tofu which packs just as much protein as a nice you that although some of you might feel the juicy steak would and then some. So if this is task of doing this may be tough, it’s actualtrue, why are more people not embracing the ly easier than you think. Take care everyone vegan diet and their style of living? “Many and feel free to join me in my experiment! people overlook this because they are not educated about the situation,”says Tran. Many To Be Continued… people just hear the words “no meat” and they start to freak out. Going without meat is like

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health

My Experience as a Vegan (Part 2 of 2)

by ben fierro used to it.

Day 2: Still feeling good and I’m ready to continue Breakfast: Shredded wheat cereal with chopped bananas Lunch: PBJ with Banana chips, water Snack: Hummus w/crackers Dinner: Amy’s Vegan Pizza, water No cravings for meat at all, getting used to this Vegan thing.

Day 3: I’m feeling pretty good still, just trying to get ready for school and continue the week.

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/ Juice

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any people feel that being Vegan is not something that most people could do on a regular basis. They feel is it too hard, and really not worth it. It’s easier to eat meat and all that other stuff and you are fine.

That’s what I thought at first, until I started to look at it more. The desire to be Vegan is for everyone, you just have to want it. For one whole month, I decided to be Vegan. Many doubted me, but I did it. I would like to share with you my experiences and as well my thoughts.

Preliminaries: For me to be a Vegan, I had to grasp the concept of being Vegan. As I had mentioned in my last article a Vegan not only decides not to eat meat, but also anything that promotes animal cruelty and uses any animal products. From soap to shampoo, all the way down to my shoes. I had to change everything about myself. From here on out, I will be a Vegan for 30days.

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Lunch: PBJ w/fruit (cantaloupe, grapes) mixed in with some granola Day 1: I felt pretty good today waking up.

When I put my mind to something, I take it on full force. I got up this morning and got ready for school. The first task that I had to take was using the Vegan toothpaste. I would have to say, that toothpaste was the most disgusting thing I had tasted in my life. I was ready to plan out the meals that I would have.

Breakfast: Banana with Soymilk Lunch: Pot sticker meal w/ glass of water Dinner: Stir-fry w/ Tofu, cup of Juice Desert: Vegan Chocolate Chip Ice Cream By the end of the day, I feel good. I have no craving for meat and I still am doing well.

Not too bad for a first day. The only thing bad was the toothpaste and I will have to get

Snack: Hummus w/crackers Dinner: 2 Morningstar vegan grillers with homemade French fries Day 4: Breakfast: shredded wheat Snack: tortilla chips/crackers Lunch: 1 protein dog, tortilla chips, IBC root beer Dinner: Tofurky Italian Sausage w corn and kidney beans I would have to say that today was my worst day so far. My lunch and my dinner were absolutely disgusting to say the least. Since I started this is the first day where I felt that I couldn’t be vegan.

Day 5: After that horrible day yesterday, I am

going to try and get back on track

over rice, water

Breakfast: Banana

I would have to say that this week went really well. Besides day 4, I feel that I am going strong and I can make it. If it becomes this easy, I don’t know if I will ever need to eat meat again. Time to get ready for week 2

Lunch: 2 Taco Bell Bean burritos w/ Dr, Pepper Snack: 1 Orange, serving of cantaloupe Dinner: Spaghetti w/ meatless meatballs

Feeling good and I want to keep this week going strong like the last one.

Day 8 Breakfast: Bowl of shredded wheat Lunch: Meatless meatball sandwich w/ kettle cooked chips, water Dinner: Stir-fry with rice (light soy sauce) Day 9 Breakfast: PBJ w/apple sauce, water Snack: Hummus with carrots

Today was a better day. I found out that I could still eat certain things at fast food places. The meatless meatballs were a bit of a change, but they were still pretty good and the meal was enjoyable. An all around good day.

Day 6: Breakfast: Grapes, cantaloupes w/ mixed nuts Lunch: PBJ with soymilk Dinner: Amy’s Pizza w/water It’s going pretty well today. I kind of feel like I am starting to overlap some of the meals I have eaten, but I think I’ll be ok. One more day and I finish out my first week.

Day 7 Breakfast: Banana Lunch: Taco Bell burrito w/ water Dinner: Vegetable stir fry along w/fried tofu

School is starting to mess with my schedule more. I got pretty full from the rice and beans at lunch, so I really wasn’t feeling too hungry Day 12 Breakfast: Toast, soymilk Lunch: Bean burrito Dinner: Cucumber wonton rolls, with a side of rice soy sauce, water Today was another good week so far. Got to finish out the weekend, and then its time for me to start creating my own food, instead of just using store bought goods Day 13 Breakfast: Shredded wheat cereal Lunch: Vegan Griller with tortilla chips, water Dinner: Hummus w/wheat thins, water Another late start to this day for me. I didn’t really eat too much, but enough to just get me by. I am still doing ok.

Lunch: Vegan griller, potato wedges, orange smiles, water

Day 14

Snack: Wheat thins

Lunch: PBJ, soymilk

I had a late start and school ran late tonight. I didn’t really want to eat a big meal, so I came home and just ate a snack at the end of the day

Dinner: Amy’s pizza, water

Day 10 Breakfast: Banana, orange

Breakfast: Toast

Once again, not a good start to the day. I got up really late and wasn’t really hungry, but I got all 3 meals in. I’m looking forward to the next two weeks, because now I can make things by myself

Lunch: Homemade salad, with balsamic dressing

Day 15

Dinner: PBJ with soymilk

Lunch: mixed fruit bowl, glass of water

Day 11

Dinner: Homemade vegetable soup, with water

Breakfast: Toast w/vegan butter Lunch: rice and beans, water Dinner: Banana, dried nuts, water crackers

Breakfast: Toast w/butter

Today was another good day, I decided make some vegetable soup and it was really good. I put some rice in it to make it stretch more

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health and it was really good.

Day 16 Breakfast: Banana w/ soymilk Lunch: PBJ Dinner: Meatless ground, with homemade rice, beans, and tortillas I was really excited about today. I got to make some stuff that I wanted to make and everything came out really good. I enjoyed today and now I will have even more leftovers to eat this week

Snack: Homemade hummus w/crackers

Lunch: n/a

Dinner: Cucumber rolls with homemade white rice

Dinner: Ratatouille over all wheat pasta, water

Day 20

I got to look at a few recipes and saw that this was something that I really wanted to make. I really enjoyed not only making it, but eating it. Everything came out really good and it just keeps getting better and better.

Breakfast: N/A Lunch: Meatless meatball sandwhich Dinner: Amy’s Pizza Got another late start to the day, since it’s Saturday and I’m tired. Didn’t really do too much, but am still rolling with the punches.

Day 17

Day 21

Breakfast: Toast

Breakfast: Homemade fried potatoes

Lunch: Vegetable soup, tortilla

Lunch: Apple sauce w/ mixed nuts

Dinner: rice, beans, tortillas

Dinner: Homemade vegetable stir fry with rice and tofu

Today was more of a leftover day today again, but everything is still going strong. I feel good being Vegan and I don’t think anything will stop me.

Day 18 Breakfast: Shredded wheat cereal Lunch: Taco Bell bean burrito Dinner: Homemade salad with balsamic dressing I tried to keep it pretty simple today so that I could stay on track. Everything is still going good, and I am really trying to keep on this thing

Day 19 Breakfast: Glass of soymilk Lunch: mixed fruit, nuts

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Another good week has come to an end. I really like this vegan thing, and I feel like I could really do it forever. Here comes another week.

Day 22 Breakfast: Toast Lunch: PBJ nuts, water Dinner: Vegan Sloppy joes, tortillas chips, water Kept it pretty simple today. The vegan Sloppy Joes were awesome and it was another good day going in.

Day 23 Breakfast: Shredded wheat cereal, toast

Day 24 Breakfast: Toast Lunch: Taco bell bean burrito Dinner: Vegan griller, homemade French fries, water Once again, not too much stuff to eat, but still keeping things simple for myself.

Day 25 Breakfast: Apple Lunch: Vegan sloppy joe, chips Dinner: Hummus w/crackers School late again, so I ate most of my stuff later and more into the daytime. I wasn’t really feeling too hungry, but everything still

seems fine.

Lunch: PBJ with kettle chips

are getting close

Dinner: Amy’s Pizza, Dr. Pepper Day 26 Breakfast: Toast Lunch: Vegan Griller with kettle chips Dinner: Black bean and corn enchilada w/ homemade rice and beans, water Everything is starting to round out for me. I only have less than a week left, but I really don’t know what I will do. I see more and more people eating meat and stuff I usually eat, and my cravings are becoming stronger. I should be ok.

Day 27 Breakfast: Glass of soymilk

Today we had a family BBQ. I was really trying to hold back so that I can finish my experiment. I am ok, surviving the day and thanking god that I made it. For the last few days of my experiment, I have decided to eat whatever I want, as long as it remains vegan.

Day 29 Breakfast: Shredded wheat cereal Lunch: Taco bell bean burrito, water Dinner: Homemade green salad Getting towards the end with only 3 days left to go until the experiment is over. I have mixed feelings, but I will play it out.

Lunch: Homemade salsa, with some chips, hummus w/crackers, water

Day 30

Dinner: Vegan griller with chips, water

Lunch: mixed fruit bowl, water

Today was the annual block sale. We sold hot dogs and links, nachos etc. I saw all that food and was really wishing that I could have some.

Because I didn’t want to get close, I just took care of the money. I really started to have a craving and just break the diet, but I know I could hold off and wait just a few more days.

Dinner: chickenless chicken with rice, beans, water

Day 28 Breakfast: Banana w/ soymilk

Breakfast: Toast, soymilk

Day 31 Breakfast: Banana, soymilk Lunch: El Pollo Loco bean and rice burrito, Dr Pepper Dinner: Leftover chickenless chicken pan fried, with onions and tomatoes, over rice, water Today was another good day for me. One more night and my experiment is over. I still don’t know how I am going to feel, but we

Day 32 Breakfast: Blueberry banana soymilkshake Lunch: PBJ, kettle chips, soymilk Dinner: Stir fry with tofu, water Today was my last night as a Vegan. I look to my Facebook friends for help to see what I should wake up tomorrow as, because I can’t really decide myself. The experiment was fun and I learned a lot about myself.

Afterthoughts: Before I started this past month, I felt that this was something that I could not possible pull off. I knew how much that I loved meat, and never saw myself making out of this month alive. After the first few days, I saw that this was not really as bad as I thought it was going to be, but still took as a day by day approach.

I learned a lot about myself in this month, like the fact that I did have willpower to try and give up the things that I liked, in order to make myself healthier and feel better. I did things that most people didn’t feel I could do.

Although my experiment is over, I am torn in which way to go now. While I was a vegan, it was a change that I had to get used to, but it ended up being something that I really embraced. It really helped me out. During the month, I lost about 20 lbs off my weight, and started to feel a lot better I had more energy and I just felt like a brand new person all around. I started to look at things differently, and gained a greater respect for animals and for the Vegan population and their goals. I do not know where this will lead me from here, but my hope is that most of you look at this experiment, and know that if I could do it, so can you!

Photography by ben fierro

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health

Wait or Fate:

Why Abstinence Makes Sense

By Jeremy s. plumb

A

s members of the Fresno community, we are part of a growing epidemic that is very much within our power to control. The only problem here, statistically speaking, is that many people exercise their freedom of choice to contribute to this epidemic rather than put a stop to it. The epidemic of which I refer is early or unwanted pregnancy, and the careless spreading of sexually transmitted diseases. The United States has the highest rate of teenage pregnancy in the western industrialized world, and is home to over 65 million Americans who are living with a sexually transmitted disease. The best way to defeat this epidemic is to wait until marriage to have sex and maintain a monogamous relationship.

Abstinence can be defined as the forbearance from any indulgence or appetite. Much like an alcoholic trying to overcome an addiction that could literally save his or her life, abstaining from sex until you are married can save you from becoming a young and unprepared parent, or another person infected with Herpes, Chlamydia, or HIV/AIDS. Consider this before having unprotected sex: Over 45 million people in the United States have Herpes and 35 percent of them don’t even know it.

There are over 4 million cases of Chlamydia each year and an alarming 75 percent of them don’t know they have it. The estimated cost of Chlamydia related complications in the U.S. each year is over 2 billion dollars.

The number of new cases of HIV/AIDS in America is approximately 469,000 each year and 1 in 5 of them have not been diagnosed.

spread of sexually transmitted diseases. There are many myths about STDs that facilitate very unwise decisions regarding sex, such as the belief that you can’t get an infection through oral interaction. This is untrue, you can! Many people believe that STDs can only be passed through blood or bodily fluids. This is also a myth. While most can be spread through fluids, STDs like herpes or syphilis can be spread through skin to skin contact alone. To put a twist on Forrest Gump’s famous phrase, promiscuous sex is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get.

kind of feelings that can easily fade away at the first sign of trouble leaving you in a very awkward position. Having sex does not necessarily make a relationship better. One way of not putting a relationship at risk for unwanted changes is to avoid sexual, or otherwise excessive emotional involvement. It is extremely difficult to correctly predict any outcomes of these types of involvement. It is in the best interest of everyone involved to wait until people are more equipped to handle the responsibilities and consequences that go along with a sexual relationship that often comes with marriage.

Some STDs are curable, but some are not.

Some STDs, such as AIDS, cause death.

There is no 100 percent effective way to protect yourself from getting an STD if you are having sex. Abstinence is the only way to avoid contracting and spreading a sexually transmitted disease. There are 19 million new cases of STDs each year and many people do not have visible signs and symptoms immediately. Many people who have an STD don’t know it. They may look healthy but they still could have an STD. Some people won’t tell you, even if they know they have it. Ask yourself if that is a risk you are willing to take before engaging in a random sexual encounter. Having protected sex does not dismiss promiscuity, nor does it protect against inheriting an STD all of the time. Another fact to remember is that no means of contraception or protection is 100 percent effective 100 percent of the time, but abstinence is always 100 percent effective 100 percent of the time.

Being married has great benefits for you, your spouse, and any children brought into a relationship. Researchers have learned many things about the positive effects of marriage on adults. For example, they live longer, healthier and wealthier lives. Kids in homes with their married parents generally have a higher standard of living, do better in school, have fewer behavioral problems, and are less likely to be abused when compared to kids living in a different family structure.

This doesn’t mean kids from single-parent homes won’t have good lives, or that kids from married homes won’t have problems, but it is less likely to happen to kids living with parents who are in a healthy marriage.

Sex within the confines of marriage can enable you to feel free from all the stress that comes with not knowing enough about who your partner has been with or what they might be carrying. Much of society has painted a rather grim image of married sex. It has been depicted as Having sex promiscuously, even when using Many people often confuse their need for ordinary, boring, and even as a duty. Our unprotection, carries great risk. There is no such closeness, touch, and affection with “being in derstanding of what the ideal domestic life is thing as birth control, contraceptives, or bar- love,” because this makes sex more permis- has been tainted. There is great joy that comes riers that are 100 percent effective in prevent- sible. Very strong feelings of passion or desire uniquely from marital sex. The pressure of ing pregnancy, and none of them prevent the do not constitute love, just lust. Those are the mainstream society is lifted and you can truly

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enjoy each other. You are allowed to abandon unrealistic, mainstream-culture ideas of what sex should be, and appreciate the natural flow of sexuality between a husband and wife who are sometimes tired, sometimes romantic, but nevertheless committed to each other. Married sexuality, in its intended form, is infinitely more satisfying because it’s free of the pressure to conform to the unrealistic and shallow expectations of the mainstream culture.

Early or unwanted pregnancy most often occurs outside of marriage, and always has significant consequences. According to the Center for Bioethical Reform, 52 percent of

all abortions are women under 25 years old, and 32 percent of all abortions are women between the ages of 20 - 24. Teenagers make up another 20 percent. More alarming though, is that 65 percent of all abortions in the United States are performed on women who have never been married. Being abstinent until marriage could prevent the possibility of ever having to make the difficult and potentially life-changing decision about abortion.

Being abstinent is a very important decision and like any other significant choice, should not be made without some consideration.

While contraceptives and barriers can have success in preventing pregnancy, they are not 100 percent effective and do not always protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Abstinence is the only method that works 100 percent of the time and it can save you from a lifetime of misery and despondency. There are really only two options to consider. Either you choose to wait until marriage to have sex, or you don’t. Abstinence makes sense if you don’t want to play the odds. However, you can choose not to wait, trust in fate, and hope for the best in beating the odds.

45

sports

Badminton a highlight of the 2010 Fresno City College Rams By ben fierro

Badminton is considered a lifelong sport. Whether you’re 6 or 60 years old, you can always play the game. Although it might not be one of the most popular sports on this side of the world, competitive badminton exists on our very campus.

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or the last 10 years now, Badminton has existed under the leadership of head coach Karol Kadingo. For the 11th season, noticed or not, the team was ready to once again embark on a journey to make it to the top of the mountain in competitive badminton.

Coming off a not so impressive year, Coach Karol Kadingo and her ladies were not about to stop utill they reached the top. “We didn’t have a good team last year, but I know for sure this year we will be ready to compete and make some noise in our conference,” stated Coach Kadingo with anticipation about the upcoming season. With three sophomores who returned to lead her squad, coach Kadingo was not worried that the ladies would be ready. With each practice and hard fought matche the team continued to excel. Coach Kadingo relied on her sophomores to lead the way for a team that was ready to compete once the regular season started.

team does not get crowds like the larger sports at FCC, don’t think for one second that, that prevented them from playing their hearts out. When I played badminton for a P. E. class it was one of the most competitive sports that I have ever been a part of. As with any sport, the intensity level is high and there is always victory on the mind.

Coach Kadingo has her team ready and with their eyes on the prize, a state championship.

There are no other schools in the area that have badminton teams, so the ladies mostly had to travel and play teams that reside in the bay area.

That might sound like a stretch but these ladies were prepared to do whatever it took to be on top of the mountain. The girls did not expect a letdown, neither did their coaches. Along with head coach Kadingo, she was assisted by coaches Benadictus Azali and Tai Bambusa. All three coach-

es made sure that these ladies were disciplined and ready to go once the season got underway.

The ladies did not have too many matches because they are only five other colleges that play badminton, but they did not disappoint.

Their matches were usually played on Tuesdays and Thursdays of the week and some Friday afternoons. If you missed out because of the cost, shame on you. The women do not charge anything to go into the main gym and watch them play. It might be a little change of pace for most of you, but the excitement is still there. I wished the women’s badminton team the best of luck when their season started, and hoped that they’d make it to the top. So whether you still catch them this year or years to come go out and cheer on our women’s badminton team and show them some FCC love.

Although the badminton

Photography by mark anthony and Frank Ramirez

47

sports

Steroid Use at Fresno City College by jeremy s. plumb

IntenseCity Magazine

By Jeremy S. Plumb

P

erformance enhancing substances, such as steroids, carry great risks that athletes at the junior college level of competition are not willing to take. One of the main reasons people give for abusing steroids is to improve their athletic performance. Steroid abuse affects individuals at various levels of competition. However, it is difficult to estimate the true prevalence of steroid abuse in the United States because many data sources that measure drug abuse do not include steroids, and a full steroid panel test is very expensive excluding most junior colleges from performing them.

According to most coaches at Fresno City College, there has been nearly no abuse of steroids or any performance enhancing substances at our school. FCC cross country coach, Gary Bleuth said, “We make it a point to see to it that our athletes stay clean. We just don’t tolerate it.” There is simply not enough use to warrant the testing, nor is there the available means to conduct them. A standard full panel steroid test costs a few thousand dollars per athlete. To give you an idea of what I mean, it would use the entire track budget for the year at FCC to test 2 athletes.

Several of the athletic programs’ coaches at FCC, including track, basketball, football, and throws, have stated that the athletes here work hard and are smart enough to stay clean.

Throws coach, Kent Pagel said, “The use of performance enhancing drugs at this level is nearly non-existent. These athletes simply have nothing really to gain, and the risks just aren’t worth it.” Some of the risks are minor, such as acne and breast development in men, to others that are life threatening, such as liver cancer. Most are reversible if the abuser stops taking the drugs, but some are permanent. In the female body, anabolic steroids cause masculinization. Breast size and body fat decrease, the skin becomes coarse, the clitoris enlarges, and the voice deepens.

Women may experience excessive growth of body hair but lose scalp hair. With continued administration of steroids, some of these ef-

fects become irreversible.

“Steroids are far more prevalent at the pro level. The higher the level of competition, the greater the abuse is,” stated coach Bleuth. Some anabolic steroids are taken orally, others are injected intramuscularly, and still others are provided in gels or creams that are applied to the skin. Doses taken by abusers can be 10 to 100 times higher than the doses used for medical conditions. Most prevention efforts in the United States today focus on athletes involved with the Olympics and professional sports. Very few colleges test for abuse of illicit drugs because of the costs involved and the general assumption that there isn’t enough use to merit testing.

The coaches at FCC believe in our players and do not suspect that performance enhancing drugs are being used at all. But because of the lack of real data, it is difficult to know for sure. One athlete who wished to remain anonymous said, “I used some steroids back in high school a few times because some of the other players had them around. I stopped after one of them ended up in the hospital for some unknown reason because I didn’t want to become another statistic. It’s like playing Russian roulette. The first few times you may get nothing, but then B-A-N-G, your dead.” Another concern is that because steroids are often taken by injections, there is also the risk of getting HIV or hepatitis infection from an unsterile needle or syringe.

Simply put, the risks at the junior college level are far greater than the benefits. It would

make sense for the athletes here to steer clear.

Aside from the monitoring of the players by the coaches however, there is no real way of knowing exactly how widespread the abuse is. Athletes can be easily influenced under certain circumstances such as group dynamics: wherein a group of guys will collectively agree to the positive effects of steroids.

While there is some abuse of steroids going on among the junior college population, it appears that FCC has a pretty clean reputation and that the student athletes here have their heads in the right place. GO RAMS!

Photography by abel cortez

49

fcc art

FCC “Untitled” By Josephus Whitfield Age:27 Major: Psychology

“Untitled,” pastel drawing

What art class are you taking this semester?

Life Painting, taught by Robyn Bates What inspired your piece of art?

Peace, love, and joy. It was also homework.

What kind of art do you usually do/like the most?

I’m into pencil, but most recently acrylics and pastels.

What do you love about art?

The creative aspect.

“Piscean Age” By Aleisha Deyoung Major: Anthropology What art class are you taking this semester?

Beginning Painting, taught by Robyn Bates What inspired your piece of art?

My instructor, Ms. Bates, taught me how to blend colors and from that I accompanied my own feelings through shapes and colors.

What kind of art do you usually do/like the most?

I’m a beginner, however oil painting is very enjoyable to me.

What do you love about art?

I love the expression of the individual and the beauty of interpretation of the viewer’s eye.

“Piscean Age”, oil painting

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Artists “Untitled” By David Lopez Jr. Age:33 Major: Fine Arts What art class are you taking this semester?

Intermediate Oil Painting, taught by Robyn Bates What inspired your piece of art?

A Juxtapoz magazine.

What kind of art do you usually do/like the most?

Charcoal and pastels.

What do you love about art?

No limits!

“Untitled”, oil painting

“A Dream In Pandora” By Manny Pantoja Age:21 Major: Visual Communications

“A Dream In Pandora”, acrylic painting

What art class are you taking this semester?

Beginning Drawing, taught by Mr. Mendez, Beginning Painting, taught by Robyn Bates, and Intermediate Drawing, taught by Anne Scheid What inspired your piece of art?

A combination of nature and the movie “Avatar”! I love earth tones and the turquoise colors in “Avatar” so I decided to incorporate both of these elements into one painting.

What kind of art do you usually do/like the most?

I love working with acrylics and charcoal pencils. I feel that acrylics are much more versatile than oils.

What do you love about art?

Art is an amazing way to express one’s self. What I love about art is being able to express myself using color, paint, and anything that I feel is best to capture what I want to convey. Through art, I appreciate and see the world in a more beautiful way.

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fcc art

“Lion of Zion”

By Ernie Ortega Age:26 Major: Undecided What inspired your piece of art?

It made it for a friend that is a reggae music DJ. It was customized just for his ass.

What kind of art do you usually do/like the most?

I’ve tried it ALL. What do you love about art?

I’ve taken art classes since the 6th grade and have probably taken almost every art class offered at FCC. I’m addicted to it.

“Lion of Zion”, oil painting

“Untitled”

By Miguel Moreno Age:25 Major: Art History What inspired your piece of art?

Unknown.

What kind of art do you usually do/like the most?

Charcoal drawing, oil and acrylic painting.

What do you love about art?

The ability to move someone with a piece of burned wood, paper, and a few lines.

“Untitled”, oil painting

IntenseCity Magazine

:::::::

“Untitled”

By Lindsey Rudometkin Age:19 Major: Undecided. “But I love astronomy and physics”.

What inspired your piece of art?

A photograph of the person who means the most to me, taken in Normandy.

What kind of art do you usually do/like the most?

I LOVE acrylic paints the most, used either really thick or watered way down, to almost a water color-y consistency.

What do you love about art?

I lose myself in it; I lose my sense of time and what’s currently going on around me. I just immerse myself in the creation of something inspired by a different set of thoughts, emotions, and feelings that I tend to avoid most of the time. I can just let my guard down.

“Untitled”, acrilyic painting

“History In Disguise”

By Michael Camacho Age:23 Major: Graphic Illustration/ Animation What art class are you taking this semester?

2-Dimensional Design, taught

by Nicholas Spohrer What inspired your piece of art?

A poem by Black Ice called

“History In disguise”, charcoal

“Imagine”.

What kind of art do you usually do/like the most?

I like doing various types of media, but one that has grabbed my interest recently is charcoal.

What do you love about art?

Just the process of being able to create something that no one has drawn before, and being able to express yourself through pictures and color.

53

fcc poetry

FRESN COLL

Po

Springtime in the Foothills, CA

Dear mischievous strangers

the telephone poles are singing your praises tonight, with arms that stretch

the length of this wide avenue; they look like a happy family.

Blue-black crows have taken to rest on these thin limbs, sighing

between caws that stir the bullfrogs from a soily slumber;

it is time to take part in the spring free-for-all feast

when the insect symphony

breaks out their fiddles, cellos and guitars.

Can you hear them when you stand, strangers?

Can you see my shattered tail lights where you are, free people?

Spring is kicking up so much drought dust and I cannot rain on this big city just so you might swat the gnats

from my dairy-cow eyes that have come

out tonight to contemplate what trimester the moon is in. Can you see her up there,

IntenseCity Magazine

laughing? Laughing at me, at you,

at the distance between us -- enough

to fill a gallery of my curiosity. Tonight, I am Alice and you are a rabbit with a waist coat and a watch

ducking behind wiry California bunch grass and joining in entomological harmonies that ring so down low, the dogs

think the foothills are humming.

Will there be music when you haul ass back east, strangers? Winter was so

quiet -- without your finger-picking

and tapping, this town gets superstitious and I get lonesome without your

lawn trumpets and your dandelion bells

breaking their heads against my window.

Carleigh Takemoto

NO CITY LEGE

oetry

Whiteblonde I remember you blonde

with a momentum all your own driving forever

(it seemed)

down the gray expanse of California

freeways

past the slaughterhouse

where the animal heart becomes refuse and we

become vegetarians---

I remember you

dirty

piss-the-bed girl

skinny

tumescent with homemade wine

dancing in the rented apartments of

boys who imagine

the future in sepia---

and you are there

C

full of thistle

daring to be loved

Carleigh Takemoto

photography by sarah meyers

arleigh Takemoto is an inspiring young poet with a great passion for words. The 21 year old student is currently attending Fresno City College where she is pursuing a linguistics degree.

She is a student of American and world literature as well as philosophy.

Carleigh desires to continue writing as much as she can and hopes to begin publishing her work as soon as possible. Her future plans include a four year degree and a master’s from Cal Berkeley followed by possibly teaching at the college level. She has taken several writing classes at FCC and enjoyed them all but stated that her poetry class was probably the best she has ever taken. She spoke of what inspires her saying, “I don’t really know what triggers my writing muscle. . .No one thing makes me want to write; it’s like a spontaneous itch I have to scratch.”

55

fcc poetry

FRESNO CITY COLLEGE Poetry

“I am inspired by random things,”states Kate Escobar.

K

ate Escobar is a pupil of nature.

She spends a great deal of time listening to and studying the world around her. She keeps as many as a halfdozen notebooks with her at any given time for recording inspiring thoughts and suggests that a great idea can come at any moment and from anything. “I am inspired by random things,” she says. “Certain images

IntenseCity Magazine

catch my interest and I write them down.” no City College working towards completing her general education requirements for Kate believes that every moment of each day transfer to Fresno State University, where is filled with an array of emotional and sen- she has aspirations of obtaining a degree in sory responses that can be put into words to biology. Her long-term goals include gradudescribe something extraordinary. When she ate school in Oregon and a job working in writes, it is her hope to capture what she is the private sector as a Wildlife Biologist. feeling and express it in her poetry. The 29 year old student is currently attending Fres-

Newlyweds

because

Across a cavernous engine bay

maybe

you look at me.

Together

the road is smoother

Newlyweds cruising;

when you have someone along

Your dark eyes crinkle

nestled in sixteen feet of faded

for the ride.

at the corners, like you know some private joke

American luxury, behind the drone of a tired V8.

We walk for miles,

and you give me your tight-lipped

Our long hair lashing

plumes of dust spiraling

smile

our young faces,

up behind us,

because you are embarrassed to

the baby kicking

surveying the lot like

show your crooked teeth.

in my belly and the nausea

vultures scenting a carcass.

settling in the

The stench of rotting upholstery

Wordless knowledge passes

back of my throat.

mingled

between us;

with stale malt liquor

that coveted matrimonial ESP.

blooms in the rays of the dawn.

We smear our grease-caked hands

I’m your right-hand man

on our coveralls in exasperation,

for the junkyard crawl, tool boxes clanking

Pausing to let me catch up

and with busted knuckles

at our sides.

and taking my hand,

and dry throats,

This is the first time-

you guide me across

we haul our treasures home.

still polite and idealistic,

morning glory pools of soft

locked

light merged in the iridescent swirls

into the journey ahead,

of motor oil.

Old Growth

upended, forlorn and pathetic;

in great swaths and the

The impending dawn brought

Not even one by one

hung

of diesel engines.

mass destruction, by

and

were snapped

and

by blunt trauma

all

The orchards fell

shunted into charnel heaps.

the relentless throb

did they fall to an axe, but through

The orange

mechanical means, their trunks

nectarine

Peach trees

of the bulldozer’s blade.

mercilessly

Kate Robertson

gentle perfume of their sap heavily

in the air

over the barren

and trampled ground.

Kate Robertson

photography by frank ramirez

57

resources

On A Budget? Shop Local

By Sarah myers Photography by Marc Anthony & Sarah myers

P

inching pennies or looking for something a little unique? Why not take a look around a local thrift or consignment store. There are several shops within walking distance from the FCC campus that will appeal to students of all ages and income. Thrift stores can be a great place to find family clothing, furniture, appliances, retro fashions, jewelry, shoes, one-of-a-kind gifts, and much more all in gently used condition and for a thrifty price.

When doing your spring cleaning this year, remember that most thrift stores accept donations (that are tax deductible).

Check out a few of these shops to see what the FCC neighborhood has to offer.

IntenseCity Magazine

Tower District Bargain Boutique

1034 N. Fulton St, 93728, 264-4272 Hours: Wed, Thur, Fri 11am-4pm

Sat 10am-3pm

Closed Sun, Mon, Tues Mostly women’s clothing. Few doors down from Babylon pool hall.

Hope for Humanity

1853 W. McKinley Ave, 486-4673 Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm

Wed 9am-5pm Large vintage selection in back.

La Tienda Guild Thrift Shop

708 E. Olive Ave, 93728, 485-0951 Hours: Raises financial & community support. 100%

of proceeds go directly to Valley Children’s Hospital.

Neighborhood Thrift Store

353 E. Olive Ave, 93728, 498-0708 Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-5pm Volunteer Opp: Work Night - Tuesdays 6:30pm-8:30pm – help sort through donations. Call for more information.

All donations accepted in back of store.

Repeat Performance Consignment Superstore http://repeatperformance.us/ 1429 North Van Ness Ave, 93728, 442-0129 Across from Audie’s Olympic Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

Sun 11am-4pm Every day discounts (10%-70% off every day). People’s Choice #1 Consignment Store for 2007 and 2008 by Fresno Bee readers. Say hi to the owner Gwynn, she’s been running the shop for over 10 years! Check

website for consignment information.

Downtown DAV Thrift Store

www.dav.org 701 Van Ness Ave, 93721, 237-0273 Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-5:30pm Register with HandsOn Central California to volunteer at the store or with other DAV (Disabled American Veterans) organizations. http://www.handsoncentralcal.org/

Emerald Thrift Store 717 Van Ness Ave, 93721 233-4764 Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm

Sun 11am-4:30pm

Goodwill

1025 Fulton Mall, 93721, 457-0420 Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm

Sun 10am-5pm

Yoshi Now

http://www. myspace.com/ yoshinow 648 Broadway St., 93721, 485-8142 Hours: WedSat 9am-5pm Sells music by local musician and hosts outdoor gigs like concerts and flea markets.

Totally worth the trip downtown.

59

About the Cover

The face collage, on the cover ,was meant to signify the diversity found on Fresno City College’s campus. Pictured are: Jerusalem Gebregziabiher, Vincente Ramirez, Nashima Griffin, Sabrina Moreno, Jacob Venhaus, Dona Thao, Thao Moua, Randy Uy, and Meher Handian.

Photography by Abel Cortez & Romero Gudino