Rampage
Fresno City College Volume CXX, Edition 2
FCC Celebrates Mexican Independence
September 22, 2010
How to Succeed in College by
Marcell Dilworth Rampage Reporter
Photo Illustration by Abel Cortez and Kris Goka Students celebrate the Bi-Centennial of Mexico’s independence. band and a dance troupe. Many campus, according to informa- different clubs took advantage by Austin Verburg FCC clubs sold food and drinks to tion available on the State Center of the opportunity to raise their Rampage Reporter the large crowd that gathered in the Community College District’s profile. What does Mexican Indepen- Free Speech area. (SCCCD) institutional research “We support all races and culdence Day mean here at Fresno “This day [Mexican indepen- site. 9,701 students or 40 percent tural events on Campus,” Cleadus City College? dence] is a very big part of His- of students identify themselves as Shelton, president of the Alpha For many students, the celebra- panic culture,” said Noemi Rangel, Hispanics in the spring semester Gamma Sigma (AGS) said. “We tion provides a chance to show president of the Folklorico club at of 2010. like to participate in everything.” pride in their cultural heritage FCC. “It is special because every“It’s my race. I feel proud of it,” AGS club members sold soda, waespecially this year as Mexico one gets along as we celebrate our said Melina Rochin, Psychology ter and nachos from their booth in marks its bi-centennial of its inde- independence.” major. order to help raise money for other pendence from Spain. The event Hispanics are by far the largThe College Activities office activities. Shelton, said the event on Sept. 16 featured a Mariachi est group of students on the FCC organized a club rush, and many See Club Pride page 2
Q&A with SCCCD Chancellor by
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Ramiro Gudino
Rampage Reporter
Can you explain SB1440, the bill that deals with community colleges and transferring? Essentially what it will do is allow students to transfer from the community colleges to the CSU and have all 60 of their units accepted if they complete the associate degree. So if it’s a 120 unit degree program, our students are not supposed to be required to take more than 60 more units to complete the degree. It might not be unusual [presently] for a student to take 140 units, and be told, ‘You still have to take this; you have to take that.’ This bill prevents students from having to take more than the total number of units, minus the 60. There are also financial implications. This means that the CSU has
Photo by Abel Cortez
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Dr. Deborah Blue SCCCD Chancellor
News:
FCC Concludes
Centennial Celebration
to pay for more classes than they really need to be offering. Students were being required to take other courses that they didn’t need. It means that in terms of financial aid, students are getting financial aid to take courses here; they are getting financial aid to take courses at the university, and that’s costing the federal government more money. While discussing your goals and objectives for the district, you mentioned enrollment management. What does that mean? It means looking at our community needs and all the courses that we have developed to meet those needs. Also, planning schedules of classes offered across the spectrum of the semester. Again, we are here to
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Entertainment: Reel Pride Film
meet community needs, and also look at what the state allocates to us as the full-time equivalent students apportionment funding that we’re going to get and make decisions that about what numbers of students we believe we can adequately serve within the constraints of that budget, and a direction that we’re given by our board. But at the same time, we must determine how many students we can serve. How much funding are we going to get? What degree are we still going to serve students above or below, or at that number that we’re going to be funded for? Our board has given us direction that they want us to serve as many students as possible. So, right now,
See Chancellor page 4
Being successful in college can be a challenge for a multitude of reasons. Some students at Fresno City College come ill prepared to deal with the ups and downs that go along with being successful in college. Others may suffer from not having enough information necessary to help guide them to their degrees. Whatever the reason may be, for some students, going to college can be like having a starring role in the upcoming season of “Survivor”. It need not be so if you follow these simple strategies. Believe in yourself Don’t neglect your relationship with yourself. You should indulge in self-support and self affirmation by believing that you are an important piece in your own life. Keyinde Solwalzi, instructor of African American studies at FCC said students have to believe that they can learn anything that can be taught. “You have got to be able to say to yourself, this teacher can be hard, or this class may be difficult, but I know that as smart as I am, I can master this.” Create a study group An effective study group involves hashing out lesson materials together and discussing them with the intent of figuring out why one person’s answer differs from another’s. By doing that you learn more than you ever would have if you study by yourself. Ann Williams, a Developmental Reading Instructor, said that studying in a group really helped her when she was in college. “A group of people has more information than a single person, so you can get different ideas,” she said. “Group studying also works well if you need to be quizzed on a particular subject.” Surround yourself with the right people As the old saying goes, “Birds of a feather flock together.” People that do bad things have to be around others who do bad things, and people who hang around those who are chasing positive goals tend to surround
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See Academic success page 2
Sports:
Views: Parking Perils
Hail Mary Win
Festival see page 6
see page 9
see page 12
see page 15
Rampage
2. News . September 22, 2010
Academic Success Starts with Yourself continued page 1
themselves with those who are in the same mind set. James M. Tucker, Dean for the Library and the Tutorial Center said when he was in high school, college and graduate school, he chose friends from people who shared common interest. “All of us were on a track that said ‘we want to be achievers; we deliberately intended to go to college,’” said Tucker. “We supported each other in our efforts to get through high school and college.” Tucker said they discussed their preferences for college and also about preparing for the SATs. “We were preparing ourselves through our friendships for where we were going to be moving on in the future, and once I got to college it was a similar deal,” he said. Defer your gratification Put off being satisfied now until you are done with what you want to achieve. Jeanie Castle, counselor for
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EOP&S, said she believes that many of us today, buy into the logic that ‘I just want to get my car right now; I just want to get money now, I don’t want to worry about school.’ She added, “With me, getting through school was my priority.” Castle received her masters degree by the time she was 25 years old; she can still remember many of her peers saying, ‘No, I am just going to take my time, take out student loans and buy what I want right now.. Take advantage of the different Programs at FCC Go to the clerk’s desk at the counselor’s office and ask for the “Student Success Resources.” You’ll be amazed at what that booklet contains. It features guides to numerous services on campus as well as the Scholarship Opportunity Web Page, Career Center, Cal Works and information on programs like Bridge and SYMBAA. These programs have many resources that can help make your college experience a lot easier.
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Linda Sanchez, an accounts clerk at the Student Lounge, said using the resources at FCC made a world of difference for her. She was a stay-at-home mom who didn’t have many skills and was, particularly, afraid of computers. Sanchez used the, then, Gain Program, which is now called Cal Works to help her get through college. “I had my own educational advisor who set me up with a plan that showed me what classes to take, and when to take them,” she said. “ My educational advisor also set me up with college works studies, so I was more connected to the college than most students.” It worked for Sanchez and will surely work for you. “You should also talk to your instructors; sit in front of the class; be active by asking question so you will know what the instructors are talking about,” Sanchez said. “And don’t be a goof-off in the back of the class.”
Club Pride: Students honor Mexican heritage continued page 1
provides an opportunity to show support of others’ cultures. Lance Truong, president of the Pre-Health Society, said the event was a way to reach out to the student body. Truong said, “It’s about the Americas coming into their own when they separated from Europe and gained their new identities. “ The club sold corn-
Fresno City College
on-the-cob and Horchota from their booth. The CEO club sold carne asada and chicken tacos from their booth. “We’re young entrepreneurs getting experience,” said CEO Vice President Jamaal Harris. “This [the booth] is a step in that direction. We have a lot of Hispanics in our group, and we’re just giving back.”
Despite recent developments in Arizona, Rochin said the independence had to be celebrated. She strongly stands against the immigration bill in Arizona but would not allow her stance on the bill to hurt the fun of the day. “We celebrate anyways,” Rochin said. “It’s not going to affect our cultural pride.”
Rampage About Us
The Rampage is an award-winning newspaper published biweekly by the Fresno City College Journalism 4 & 5 programs and is a member of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges. Views expressed in The Rampage are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of Fresno City College, its students, administration or the State Center Community College District.
Editors
Managing Editor: Ramiro Gudino News Editor: Sydney Excinia Views Editor: Ashley Trembley Entertainment Editor: Laura Bradley Photo Editor: Abel Cortez Online Editor: Max Rosendahl Sports Editor: Marcell Dilworth Business Manager: Leah Edwards Production Manager: Jessika Verduzco Editorial Advisor: Quinn Robinson Faculty Advisor: Dympna Ugwu-Oju
Rampage
Reporters Rigo Aguilar Laura Bradley Abel Cortez Alyssa Diaz Ramiro Gudino Angel Lopez Arod Rodriguez Ashley Aguilar Ashley Trembley Austin Verburg Bryson Ferguson Chanel Dismuke David Malagon Dylan Domingos Gabriella Ramirez
Kris Goka Kyle Barrett Lyssette Trujillo Marcell Dilworth Max Rosendahl Melanie Cron Phillip Romar Quinn Robinson Sam Loproto Sebouh Simonian Sendy Garcia Sydney Excinia Tania Tran William Christensen Karina Ornelas Dustin Rocha Kevin Rodriguez
Contacts
Editor In Chief rampage-editor@fresnocitycollege.edu
Fresno City College 1101 E. University Ave. Fresno, CA 93741
Rampage business Office rampage-business@fresnocitycollege.edu
Office: (559) 442-8262 Fax: (559) 265-5783
Advisor dympna.ugwu-oju@fresnocitycollege.edu
Visit our Web site for updates www.FresnoCityCollegeRampage.com
City, State, and National Headlines Impact FCC by Tania Tran Rampage Reporter
Gas Explosion Levels Neighborhood
A natural gas line explosion in San Bruno, California shot up fire that killed at least four people and injured 20 others. The blaze destroyed three homes and damaged dozens more. Residence of the effected area claim they have been calling PG&E complaining of a gas odor for weeks before the explosion. “We haven’t got confirmation about any complaints, but we have records to confirm exactly the phone calls looked like and when they occurred.” PG&E President Chris Johns told reporters. State Assemblyman Jerry Hill, representative for San Bruno and surrounding cities, is pushing for answers regarding the cause of the explosion. “The residents deserve to know if PG&E used correct procedures in the days and weeks leading up to the disaster” he said. To date the utility company states they could not confirm resident reports and they are “looking into it”.
New Teaching Assignment for Professor Bradley Lopez
Fresno City College Professor Bradley Lopez is no longer teaching introductory health courses. Lopez, who was involved in controversy earlier this year regarding his teaching habits, has been given five classes in health information technology and medical assisting departments He is “immensely” happy with the change stating he doesn’t view it in a negative way or as a means of punishment, but instead is excited because students in those classes are “more respectful and focused,” he said. “They know where they are going and why,” said Lopez. Last spring Lopez denied using religious based and anti-gay views
as facts in his introductory health class, but the college still issued him a notice or correction after an investigation showed that he had engaged in conduct that could create a hostile learning environment, which violates district policy. Lopez’s attorney, Charles Magill, said Lopez plans to file a lawsuit to have the notice removed, and might also seek financial damages.
Bicycle Thief Caught
The State Center Community College District Police department has recently received numerous reports of bike theft around the campus. Two suspects have been charged for the crimes. The first suspect would steal the bikes from bike racks across campus then give the bikes to the second suspect who would sell the parts on Craigslist. The bicycles being targeted are those secured with a cable lock. The SCCCD Police department recommends using a “U” type lock (it is harder to defeat) or taking a wheel with you when using a cable lock. If you see anyone suspicious hanging around any of the bike racks on campus contact the District police at (559) 442-8201
Big Times are Back
The Big Fresno Fair rolls into town Oct. 6 at the Fresno fairgrounds with new events, exhibits, and popular performers. Something to look forward to is the first-ever Octoberfest that will be held in the Save Mart wine garden on Oct.7. Festivities will include authentic German food and beer set along with traditional German music, dancing, and games. A full schedule of event and list of performers can be found at the Big Fresno Fair website www.fresnofair.com
Rampage
September 22, 2010 . News. 3
How to Stay Fit on a Budget by
Chanel Dismuke
Rampage Reporter Times are tough right now, and people are trying to save money anywhere they can. However, your health shouldn’t be what takes the hit. So, whether you want to lose five, 10 or 20 pounds, or are just looking for some new ways to work out, here are some fun, simple and inexpensive ways to achieve your health goals. Geocaching is a worldwide, outdoor scavenger hunt for “treasure” laden containers, called geocaches, using the exact coordinates of the geochaches and a global positioning system (GPS) to find them. Once the geocache is found, you are able to take something out to keep and replace it with something you brought with you to keep the fun going. Afterwards, log your experience online at geocaching.com. Some facts: At the moment there are 1,169,547 active caches, and an estimated four to five million geocachers worldwide with approximately 4,716,474 new logs in the last 30 days. It is free to join. For more information, go to Geocaching.com. Woodward park in addition to its gardens and play areas, it has the beautiful Lewis
S. Eaton trail which is made for walking, bike riding and jogging. This trail is also wheelchair accessible. The trail is two miles long, single track with mild terrain that becomes progressively more difficult in sections throughout the area. Also, the park boasts a disk golf course with 18 baskets that change positions often and rolling hills for those feeling a bit
Bicyclists are becoming more common on fcc campus.
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Answers
Do you know the fourth amendment? Who is the speaker of the House of Representatives? Do you know what happened on Sep. 17, 1787 and what is celebrated on Sept. 17 of every year? If you don’t know, don’t worry. You are not alone. Not many people in the U.S. are aware of the federal holiday celebrating the signing of the U.S. Constitution by 39 American citizens, including President George Washington. Fresno City College joined colleges all over the country to celebrate this mandatory holiday known as Constitution Day on Friday. It is mandatory for all colleges to acknowledge this federal holiday on Sept. 17 of each year. The Associated Student Government sponsored the activities for students and handed out free constitutions and played Jeopardy with questions about the constitution. Kyle Doane, an FCC student, won one of the rounds, making him eligible for a raffle draw to win a Roadster bicycle. Doane, who said his instructor, had reviewed the constitution in class, stayed in the lead from the beginning. He answered correctly on a lot of questions about the constitution. Besides Doane, not many
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people knew what was going on. In fact, most students said they did not know that there is such a thing as a Constitution Day. Maria Santos and Abigail Galindo, both second year students at FCC, agreed that they didn’t know much about the constitution anymore. They had both learned about it in grammar school but had now forgotten much of it. This was the case with several other students. Not many FCC students seemed interested in learning about the constitution either, but there were definitely a few who had fun playing Jeopardy and winning prizes. ASG Executive Vice President Brent Beckwith said the student government was hoping to make students aware of this very important fact. he said, “How long has it been since they [students] looked at it since grammar school?”
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Rampage Reporter
The Fourth ammendment says “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized. “ California Democrat Nancy Pelosi has been the 60th speaker of the house since 2007. She follows the vice president in the line of succession. The Constitution was signed on September 17, 1987 by 42 of the 55 delegates. It was ratified by 9 of the 13 colonies June 21, 1788.
Lyssette Trujillo
Fresno Cycling Club
is for those who prefer being on two wheels. Experience ranges from novice to expert cyclists
with ride lengths to fit everyone. The club trains you how to ride more efficiently, stay hydrated on rides and even how to eat better both for your health and riding ability. There is a $25 membership fee for individuals and $30 fee for families (entire household) for the full year plus a year’s subscription to their monthly newsletter and participation in all club activities.
Bike facts: if you weigh 150 lbs and ride your bike for an hour at less than 10 mph, you burn approximately 272 calories. Increase your speed to between 10-12 mph and you burn about 408 calories. For more information, visit fresnocyclingclub.com. You can obtain the same results by changing just a few things in your daily routine too. Fresno City College’s athletic director Susan Yates has a few suggestions for students looking to make small changes in their daily life to improve their health and fitness levels. Here’s a simple one everyone knows about. Walk or ride your bike to school! Walking is the simplest form of exercise and on average, people burn four calories per minute. Added benefit, you save on gas.
Drink plenty of water (and yes tap is fine and free) People have the habit of
Constitution Day by
more adventurous. Trees provide some shade and cover for the course and resting areas. There is a $3.00 park entrance fee ($5 for nonresidents) if you drive into the park; however, there is no fee if you walk or bike in.
Photo by Abel Cortez
writing off beverage calories; however, every 20 ounces of regular Coca Cola you consume contains 250 calories. Alcohol calories can also begin to have a negative effect on your weight since on average a beer and shot contain 100 calories. Keep yourself hydrated with H2O and you may be cutting down on more calories than you ever would have imagined.
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Chancellor Blue Discusses Budget Shortfall continued from page 1
enrollment is 10 percent larger than we are funded for. I realize the budget dictates how many people can be served, but what are the policies in place to make those kinds of cuts and make the reductions needed? I would say that the district has posted a policy, which is more of a guiding principle to serve as many students as possible and not limit ourselves to only the number that we’re funded for, to the extent that we can. That’s a guiding principle we have to carry out and meet. At the time, more students are interested than what the school can support. How does the district draw the line and turn students away? We set a number and we say if we’re going to fund 10 percent more students than we’re funded for, 10 percent more equals this number, then Fresno City College, you can serve this number, Reedley, you can serve this number, North Centers you can serve this number. That’s how we make our decision. California community colleges are open access. We have guidelines that establish the order
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percent more students this year students get to go through than we are funded for, so when registration, in terms of who can get priority, continuing, you look at our numbers, it looks new, etc. That is determined like we’re declining, but it’s still by the state. What we can do the case that more students are is create a sequence in which in school when the economy has students can register. We problems, we have more people can’t set arbitrary ways of coming back because they’re uneliminating students because deremployed, want to gain new it’s really first-come- firstskills and prepare themselves for served within those paramnew jobs, promotions and their eters. existing jobs all kinds of things. I don’t know the specifics Another thing the finance peofor how we set the criteria for ple reminded me of is that with who gets priority registration the increased numbers of forecloand who follows after that, sures on mortgages, there’s lower but there is the potential for Photo by Abel Cortez property tax collections, and the all kinds of mixes because state depends on property taxes as Dr. Blue responds to questions. that’s what access means. a part of its’ revenue for projecting You could have a part-time Can you explain how the college budgets. When they say student, but that part-time student budget shortfall is affect- we get 10 percent more revenue has 50 units, so they’re pretty far in property tax, that’s more money ing the district as a whole? along in their program, and you There’s always a pattern in to work with. When 5 percent less could have a full-time student California community col- tax is collected, then there is less but they may be a beginning revenue to allocate to us, so that full-time student and they don’t leges and I think it’s true for com- really impacted our budget as well. have any units yet. We don’t have munity colleges everywhere that Also, when the federal governarbitrary ways of trying to prevent whenever you have high unem- ment is having financial problems students from being in class and ployment, we get many more stu- there is less grants we can apply dents. Employment goes down and we shouldn’t. for competitively and get. For There are different types of pri- enrollment goes up. And certainly example we just received, really, ority, and I don’t know them all, FCC is seeing that. We’re seeing millions of dollars in funding for but if there are continuing student that in the district as a whole but student support services. Every and they’re pretty far along, if they remember that again we’ve had that campus received student support plan ahead and take advantage situation where we served 17 per- services grant funding. But, if this of when they can register, they cent more last year than we were falls at the federal level, we get should get in. funded for and were serving 10 less, if we get them at all.
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Also the big issue that is really plaguing community colleges all over the state is that we don’t have that state budget. It’s late. We don’t know the fallout. We can make projections and predictions, and we’ve done that. We have a tentative final budget the board adopted, because our finance leadership is very strong and we feel comfortable with our projections, but community colleges across the state are wondering how they can keep their doors open after October or November unless we get the budget passed. We’re fortunate in our district because our board has been very fiscally conservative and we’ve had good fiscal leadership administratively, and we’re not as worried as other districts, but we still play out worst-case scenarios. We are better positioned to weather these difficult issues than many other districts, but it’s a concern. Finally, another impact is the fact that when you have good economic times, it seems that the politicians work together better. Both sides can always find a compromise, but more difficult financial times make it harder to come to agreements, and the longer it takes to agree, the longer we are without a final budget. This affects our district and each four campuses similarly; it’s not just Fresno City.
Vandalism Spikes on FCC Campus by
Dustin Rocha
Rampage Reporter If you’ve noticed an increase in the cases of vandalism around town and on the Fresno City College campus in particular, you are not alone. Signs are everywhere, from street lamps to street signs and even in public bathrooms. Greg Breshears, a utility worker at FCC, is doing his part to keep the college clean and free of graffiti. Breshears is in charge of cleaning up illegal arts on campus. “The second floor bathroom of the Art Home Ec. building gets hit the hardest by vandals; it has to be repainted at least once a week,” Breshears said, adding that on one occasion, the entire bathroom was torn apart -- the toilets and sinks were smashed, the stall doors were
ripped off the hinges, and the bathroom was even set on fire. The police staked out the area, but no arrests were made, said Chief Joe Callahan, head of the SCCCD police. The police locked down the bathrooms for nearly a month. “It always amazes me. I don’t understand it,” Callahan said. He said that some people just do not take into consideration how their actions will affect others, and when this happens, all suffer. “Why would you want to trash your campus? Why would you want to destroy a bathroom that you might want to use?” he asked. An estimated 300 cases of vandalism have been prosecuted in Fresno this year, but hundreds of cases filed are thrown out due to lack of evidence. Most pros-
ecuted cases result in payment of restitution for damages. Offenders receive a misdemeanor on their records and probation. Unfortunately, due to the decreased funding and overcrowded jails, those convicted of vandalism basically receive a slap on the wrist. The repercussions do not seem to stop individuals from committing these crimes. Enforcing the restitution fees is hard and because vandalism inmates get released first during cutbacks, the threat of jail is not real. The SCCCD Police are now patrolling within a quarter mile of the campus and cracking down on offenders more harshly. Chief Callahan said he is hoping an increased patrolling of campus will reduce vandalism. Meanwhile, he is unsure of how severe the
Greg Breshears removes grafitti. incidents will be on campus. It is a “random crime, so we never know when it is going to hit, but I assure you that whatever goes on in the neighborhoods around us
Photo by Brandon James
eventually comes to us,” he said. “How soon who knows, how severe it will be we don’t know, but we will be ready and we will react promptly.”
. News. 5 Rampage Exploring the Internet September 22, 2010
by
Angel Lopez
Rampage Reporter
The Tower District or “The Neighborhood” as many locals call it is known for its unique style. Most of the businesses here are small and family owned but are still bringing clientele more than ever in the heart of Fresno. But one business that is branching out and will soon be opening its doors across town is Teazer. Teazer World Tea Market has been open since 2003 in the Tower District, and has made a name for itself due to its assembly of international teas and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s no surprise that another location has opened in downtown and the third location will soon open in the River Park shopping center. “I bowed to deliver a good product that I can give to the customer” says co-owner and founder Ann Wen-yi Liao. Ann was born in Taiwan and grew up in a Chinese herb shop where she first learned about tea making from her grandparents. Ann was a student at Fresno City while working at a Japanese restaurant with her soon to be co-partner. “All walks of life and all different cultures have the subject of tea in common, tea brings people together” says Ann in explaining what her vision for Teezer was. Not everyone is happy about the decision to move the tea sanctuary across town, some believe that Teazer is losing its small business ideal and “selling out.” “I never want to put a cap on what I can do, people need to understand that one person can’t control a business too much, they are not here when I have to battle with my own life to keep this place opened,” says Ann on expanding. One supporter is Christina Grajales, a regular at Teazer, and a partial owner of Charlollete’s Bakery, who said, “Her being here has brought so much to the neighborhood; everybody flocked here when it opened.” “She’s a smart business woman and saw an opportunity to open in a different atmosphere,” said Grajales of Wen-yi’s decision to expand. Grajales said her family was also approached about opening another location in the downtown area but refused it because she prefers to stay a small family business. “We don’t have enough employees, but we decided to make this one as great as it can be,” says Grajales. Ann believes that employees will come as the business grows, this will provide many job opportunities for people in every community. “We always have to incorporate and provide for people not just in our community, but in other areas of the city as well, its how small businesses help in our own way.” Ann feels fortunate to have a lot of friendly people working together, and
expects the same for the other locations. Many northeast and northwest residents are excited about the new location in River Park “We have a good product and interact well with customers, people always tell me that they like my place but it’s too far to drive.” Leo Rios, the owner of Café Corazon which moved locations from Downtown Fresno to the Tower area in the summer, said he too has chosen not to expand if an offer comes along. “Our business vision is to just be part of a small community in Fresno,” he said. Ann has no intention to forget what she calls her “sanctuary” and very first location that began it all, “We are still here, and the first thing I did was revise this place,” but this doesn’t narrow her interest of creating nice places in a city that needs much rejuvenation. As she mops the floor and sets up every morning, Ann wants people to know that she is no “sell out” and still cares very much about her business and to appeal to more people and different areas of the city; she wants more places where people can be themselves, “Every place has its own seed, of course you have to give it direction but it’s still its own, each tea place will have its different cultures.” When asked about Teazer ever becoming a nationwide franchise, Ann was uncertain of what the future holds for the Tea World Market “I take it one step at a time, I need to know the how before the when.”
Popular REcipes Wellness Tea Orange peels, ginger roots, pepper mint, licorice roots -This tea is good for coughing, nasal ingestion, and stomach flu. Lady D’s Blend Rose hips, hibiscus, licorice roots, lemon grass, spearmint -This tea contains an abundance of vitamins, this tea taste great and works magically to help you relax and get over the cold. Red Lavender Roobios (red tea) Lavender flowers, roobios tea -Lavender is a great source for vitamins and helps reduce stress and roobios is loaded with antioxidants. This tea is a great combination to help you open up your senses and relieve the uncomfortable feeling of the flu.
by
Melanie Cron
Rampage Reporter If you are an explorer by nature, the internet provides a plethora of avenues for exploration. It is easy to get lost on the web, sifting through countless websites, searching for the cool and unusual pages that may spark your various interests. Below are some internet pages that are not the most popular, but should be on everyone’s ‘favorites’ list.
Exploring the “Cool” Nerd: Nerdist was founded by Chris Hardwick, who currently hosts ‘Web Soup,” and is a self proclaimed nerd when it comes to gadgetry. Hardwick’s website started out with him blogging about cool nerdy technology-based things as well as personal enjoyable topics. In the past months, his website evolved including copious amounts of people all with their own ‘nerdy’ qualities. Nerds range from ‘shark’ nerd to ‘watch’ nerd. Each type of nerd posts blogs on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Their posts include anything and everything pertaining to their ‘nerd’ topic, which makes this website cool for just about everyone. If you like art, great, there is a nerd for that. If you like books, great, there is also a nerd for that. If there isn’t a nerd topic that suits you, you can write to Chris Hardwick and he may give you access to post your own nerdy fascinations on the website. www.nerdist.com
Exploring Unique Clothing: Threadless was created by Jack Nickell and Jacob DeHart. They created Threadless as, “an ongoing open call for tee shirt design submissions, as a way to “give back” to the community by creating products featuring the work created by participating artists.” Their products range from Tshirts to hoodies for men, women, and even children. They also have prints for purchase that you can frame and put up in your apartment. Prices range from $18-$24 for tees and about $30 for hoodies. I suggest, checking back from time to time because they have killer sales, usually around the beginning of school and the holidays. You can usually get tees for $5 or $10 bucks! www.threadless.com
Exploring the Weirdest Food: I think being creative in the kitchen is cool. Not only, cool, but fun. People submit pictures and recipes of food with extremely high calorie amounts; this website isn’t called this is why you’re skinny. Here is an example submitted by the foodie, Cellidor: “A wide, single layer cake, topped with white icing (cheese), gummy strips (green and red pep-
N A T I O N A L
pers), chocolate coins (pepperoni), turtles chocolates (sausage pieces), purple fruit loops (black olives), strawberry syrup (pizza sauce), and a long row of Twinkies to act as the crust,” www.thisiswhyyourefat.com. Yummy. Or maybe not so much. www.thisiswhy yourefat.com
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6 . News. September 22, 2010
Rampage
Fresno City College Concludes Centennial Celebration with Convocation by
Sammy “Pro” LoProto Rampage Reporter
Fresno City College concluded its centennial celebrations with a convocation ceremony at Ratcliffe Stadium on Sept. 10. Dr. Cynthia Azari, president of the college, presided over the event during which Charles McClane, the founder of FCC, as well as past presidents of the college were honored. The FCC Concert Band warmed up the crowd and provided the music for the procession of the 100 stars, VIPS, including specially invited guests, presidents and chancellors to the stage. Marshall Don Larson led the procession, holding the Ram’s head staff high. President Azari, Dr. Deborah Blue, chancellor of SCCCD, and Dr. Jack Scott, state chancellor, members of the SCCCD Board of Trustees, and past presidents of FCC constituted the platform party. Faculty and staff members followed, wearing red as a symbol of spirit and pride. The FCC ROTC color guard marched the flags down the center aisle and the FCC City Singers sang a nice a cappella version of the Star Spangled Banner. “Happy Birthday Fresno City College,” Azari said as she kicked off her celebratory speech. The morning continued with Dr. Blue offering her memories of working with the past presidents. She introduced the great granddaughter of C.L.McLane, founder of FCC. Vice President of Instruction, Mr. Tony Cantu introduced the past presidents, including Dr. Ned Doffoney, 2002-2008; Dr. Brice Harris, 1991-1996; Dr. Ted Leach, 1987-1991, and the longest reigning president, Dr. Clyde McCully,
1967-1987, who is also being honored as one of the 100 stars for 100 years. Dr. Jack Scott, the state chancellor, spoke about a new legislative bill, SB1440, a seamless transfer proposal for community college students. It sits on the Governor’s desk and he is expected to sign it upon his return from China. As an AMTRAK train blew its horn in the background, Scott concluded, “Community colleges are the unique American invention of education.” Next, politicians presented citations to FCC, starting with Fresno City Councilman, Blong Xiong, who presented Azari with a plaque commemorating the 100 years. Then came Fresno County Supervisor Phil Larson. Congressman Jim Costa who was next, said, “When we reflect on the crown jewels of California’s Community College system, nobody does it better.” Dr. Francisco Rodriguez, president of Mira Costa College in San Diego, offered his compliments in Spanish. “Feliz Cumpleanos, Fresno City College,” he said. Fresno City Mayor Ashley Swearengin gave a passionate speech, commending all the educators for their efforts in changing
the lives of thousands of people who came through the doors of FCC. “We have seen sweeping cultural and economical changes over the last 100 years,” she said. “But as things change, some things remain the same. FCC has always been committed to making a positive impact on young peoples’ lives. Today we strive to match the skills of our workers with the jobs that exist in our community.” President of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Pat Patterson gave the closing remarks, reminding the crowd that FCC was the first community college to offer full technology programs. He said, “FCC has survived two World Wars, the Great Depression, and we are now in a recession, but we will still be here for another 100 years.”
The City Singers led the crowd in a rendition of the Alma Mater, created in 1951. Beneath the high Sierras, Here arched by the blue above, Hail to thee ,our Alma mater. Memory may we always love, The years may pass, we’ll not forget. The Red and White ne’er fail, Fresno City may it still prevail. Hail!, Hail!, Hail!
Photos By Abel Cortez, Ramiro gudino, Gabriella Ramirez, and Tania Tran
Reviews: Kevin Rodriguez
by
Rampage Reporter
Director: M. Night Shyamalan Staring: Christina Messina, Jacob Vargus, Matt Craven, Logan Marszhall Green Overall Grade: C+
The “Devil” has come to the big screen. Most are skeptic of this movie because of its creator, M. Night Shyamalan. His last attempts of movie making have failed tremendously in the box office. Some are: “The Last Airbender,” “The Lady in the Water, and “The Happening.” However, all of his movies are complex and sometimes they do not impact the average viewer the way he would like them to. The difference in this movie is that “Devil” is just Shyamalan’s brainchild; he is not actually directing it. He left that to John Dowdle who directed Quarantine. by
Sebouh Simonian Rampage Reporter
Director: Ben Affleck Staring: Ben Affleck, Rebecca Hall, Jon Hamm, Jeremy Renner Chis Cooper Overall Grade: A
In Ben Affleck’s new movie The Town, which debuted in theaters Friday, Doug MacRay (Ben Affleck), an intelligent but ruthless leader of a gang of bank robbers headquartered in Charlestown, Massachusetts, is faced with a decision that will change the entire course of his life. This suburb of Boston apparently leads the nation in carjacking, kidnaping, and armored car and bank robberies. During the gangs latest heist, the boys force a bank teller to open a vault for them, but when things go awry, they are forced to take
by
Austin Verburg Rampage Reporter
Platform: Xbox 360 Devoloper: Bungie Overall Grade: A+
On September 13, I was one of many fans waiting outside the stores until midnight. For hours I took in the sights of many different hardcore gamers, some dressed in costume, all-waiting for one common goal, to purchase Halo: Reach at midnight. From my Halo wallet and wristband to my Spartan jacket, I made sure I was decked out with Halo gear. Arriving at three to get a good place in line, I waited with other
Rampage
September 22, 2010 . Entertainment . 7
A Look at the latest vices Dowdle’s work in “Quarantine” lays the foundation for the “Devil’s” visual effects. The “Devil” is a supernatural thriller with suspense and horror including violence, disturbing images and sexual language. “Devil” stars Chris Messina (Julie & Julia), Jacob Vargas (Traffic), Matt Craven (A Few Good Men) and Logan-Marshall Green (Brooklyn’s Finest). The setup is simple enough. Five people (the salesman, older woman, wealthy wife, young man, and security guard) get into an elevator and get stuck. This simplicity gives homage to the classic murder mystery scenario, but intertwined are unique and unexpected events that help unfold the story. Throughout
the film you learn about each character to understand their place in M. Night Shyamalan’s story. For example Detective Bowen (Chris Messina) is introduced as a recovering alcoholic who lost his family in a hit-and-run accident several years earlier. Detective Bowen is called onto a scene of an apparent suicide in Philadelphia. While he is investigating, he gets a second call regarding the five people trapped in the high rise elevator. As the investigation continues, the detective learns that these cases may be linked. Detective Bowen must race against time to save the people in the elevator by unfolding the mystery that brought them all together, on that certain day, in that particular building.
The film is mainly shown through the security camera feed, giving this movie a jittery chill when the elevator lights keep shutting off and on. The visual effects are reminiscent of “Quarantine,” which gives the movie some jump scares and creepy effects. Overall the story emphasizes on many aspects: being trapped in a dark spaces, unexpected darkness, and strange individuals who aren’t who they appear to be. M. Night Shyamalan delivers a plain plot story with a twist that will not leave most of you disappointed. So I would say Devil would be a mistake to miss if you’re a fan of horror films and wanting to be scared the next time you decide to enter an elevator.
the young miss along for the heart pumping adventure. Claire (Rebecca Hall) proves to be a thorn in the side of Doug’s partner in crime, Jim (Jeremy Renner), and after they release her, Doug decides to keep an eye on her since she only lives four blocks fro him and he can handle it, right? Doug ends up falling for her and angers Jim, who wants her eliminated. To complicate matters, over zealous FBI agent Adam Frawley (Jon Hamm) is hotly pursuing the whole group and stirring up all kinds of trouble for these Boston bank robbers. Doug soon realizes that his luck will eventually run out and decides
to retire from a “life of crime”. He encounters resistance from Jim and their mob style boss nicknamed ‘the Florist’ (Pete Postlethwaite), and reluctantly agrees to one last heist before walking away forever and putting Boston in his rear view mirror. The film is full of exciting action sequences , and in contrast explores the complicated life of Doug. MacRay is dealing with his father Stephen (Chris Cooper) who is serving 40 years in prison for armed robbery, and at the same time living up to his partners expectations as the leader of the crew. The film is full of high octane car chases, and culminates with
a climactic shoot out at Fenway Park. This script is well written as Affleck, who also directed the film, assisted screenwriters Aaron Stockard and Peter Craig to show how hard it can be to walk away from a life of crime. Affleck worked closely with the screenwriter for this movie, and has so far been enjoying a great success. Affleck seems to be coming into his role as both actor and director in The Town, and audiences are excited to see what he has up his sleeve next. The ending doesn’t leave much room open for a sequel, but with action this good and a performance like that, I doubt it needs one.
hardcore fans, which had been there since at least nine o’clock that morning. They sat together with their own TV and Xbox 360 playing previous Halo titles outside of Gamestop. Eventually, a fully suited fan in Master Chief armor arrived to wait in line with the rest of us, being cheered on by the fans. At ten, we all paid for our games in full before hand. At midnight, however, was where everyone was handed each of his or her (yes there were girls there) game. Going home and needing to get some rest, I got to finally enjoy the
game the next day. The game opens with the main protagonist, a new Spartan in Noble Team, meeting his or her (Depends on what gender you choose to be) teammates, each unique in personalities and weapon specialty. The game is very friendly to fans new to the series, giving a plotline that requires no knowledge of previous titles, since the game is a prequel to the original trilogy. The plotline here, however, is far darker. While the other games were about victory and finding hope when all seems lost, this one is more so about defeat
and sacrifice, especially when there is little hope. Features such as Firefight come through, allowing you to customize every aspect of the battle such as choosing to fight with the Covenant aliens against your human friends. Forge comes through with its new editing tools, as well as a massive level called Forge World, which allows you to create entire maps from scratch, though this can be overwhelming sometimes. This game has truly come through, and no doubt deserves the title of “the biggest game of 2010”.
8 . Entertainment . September 22, 2010
Rampage
Reel Pride shares real issues by
Karina Ornelas Rampage Reporter
The sixth oldest festival of its kind, and one of the largest in the U.S, Fresno’s Reel Pride Film Festival has surpassed its humble beginnings in a small classroom at Fresno State in 1990, when two students, Peter Robertson and Jeff Robinson, started this as a school project. In the past 21 years, the festival’s focus has never strayed from providing a mirror to the LBGT community. While its early films from the civil rights movement era were mainly about people coming out and being shunned, today’s films are more general in a sense that audiences have come to accept the
gay lifestyle. “Thanks to this festival, it’s not a big deal,” said Stephen Mintz, programming director for the festival. Mintz, who sipped on water at the Starline Grill during this interview, couldn’t hide his enthusiasm even if he tried. He talked about the festival with the confidence of one who manages every detail until perfection. In May of every year, h e starts
working full time for the festival, personally hand-picking the perfect blend of international features, documentaries, and short films to be shown in the festival. Nearly every film featured, he mentioned, has won at least one award and has participated in other LGBT-theme related film festivals. He should know, as he watches about 400
ter parties every night of the festival at a different location around the Tower District, and also youth pizza parties. “We just want to show really great films,” said Mintz. In some cases, the festival is much more than just really great films. In some cases, Mintz gets approached by people who say things
films a year, in addition to attending other similar film festivals, to know just what to bring to the audience in Fresno. The festival enlists help from student volunteers who run concessions during the five nights of the festival’s run which this year is from September 15 to the 20. The goal is to provide something for everybody who attends; the festival achieves that by hosting af-
like “Coming here saved my life,” as in the case of Sara. Through someone she met at a gay-student alliance in school, Sara ended up attending the festival, eventually joining the board of directors. She was amazed at how many people were just like her and realized how many others deal with the issues she has. Mintz hopes audiences are able to get that from the festival. “We want to provide a safe place for people who have felt shunned,” Mintz said of what the Reel Pride Film Festival hopes to give to the
LGBT commu n ity, a place where they won’t feel ashamed and will feel comfortable expressing who they really are. And what better way, as he puts it, “Have a film that’s really enjoyable, and later have a party.” Basically, it’s one of the many gifts that the Tower District offers Fresno residents. To someone who has never been to the festival, it’s a must. And as for people who have previously attended, it’s an opportunity to share it with a friend who never has experienced Fresno’s own Reel Pride Film Festival.
Illustration by Austin Verburg
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Rampage
That is SO Fetch: by
Dylan Domingos Rampage Reporter
Fresno may not be the fashion capital of the U.S., but the story of one young entrepreneur’s vision may change Fresno’s standing in the industry. Bryan van Haughton, 21, is the mastermind behind House of Fetch Couture. HOFC, and its economic friendly label Rouge, houses some of the best pieces of artistry in today’s fashion industry. The designer’s creativity for each collection comes from many inspirations. “I use my friends for inspirations,” says van Haughton, “as, well as my muses, but music is my main inspiration for many of my collections.” Van Haughton wrote about his own vision of an ideal client for his clothing line. She is a “young woman with a no-bull approach to life… She’s one of the most genuine people you will ever have the pleasure of meeting – with a closet to envy.” Van Haughton was discovered by Internet buyers after creating a blog to help market his collection, where he was able to sell an entire collection, and received the majority of the profit. Now, a buyer can find House of Fetch Couture’s clothing for sale on USTrendy.com, in San Francisco; SenseofFashion.com, from Israel; and TribecaRetialClub.com; out of New York, and owned by Laura
Little. Laura Little recently purchased two pieces of van Haughton’s collection and is planning on showing and selling his work, through her online boutique, worldwide by the end of September. Prices from House of Fetch Couture’s main collection can range from $80$350 depending on fabric choice and labor. Rouge, the company’s diffusion label, is more recession friendly. Prices from Rouge can range from $35-$150. Van Haughton said he hopes to be able to expand his company in the near future. “This is a one
Bryan van Haughton shows his personal flair for style.
September 22, 2010 . Entertainment. 9
In House with Bryan Van Haughton man operation. I design and make the clothing, I work on the web site, I work with sales, and I create my own trailers and shows. It’s time for an expansion” he said. The number 13 comes up a lot in van Haughton’s workspace, and especially in the interview. “It’s more sentimental than anything,” he said. “The number 13 is close to me, because the company’s name was started when I was 13, there were 13 looks for each collection in the beginning, and when you put the one and the three closer together, they form a ‘B.’
Photo by Dylan Domingo
Part of his ultimate goal is to open 13 boutiques. Eight in California, one in Paris, one in London, one in Tokyo, and two in New York. “Although I am the creator of House of Fetch Couture, the clothes are the real star,” van Haughton said, “I want my clothing to be well known, to be identifiable; I don’t care if people don’t recognize me. I’m just the man behind the curtain.” In Spring 2011, van Haughton plans on putting on his first fashion show of his collection titled Lycanthropy. “It’s a story told, by the clothing itself, about volatile, werewolf like women portrayed by mystery and sex” he said. Lady Gaga’s song “Teeth,” and Shakira’s song “Shewolf” are prominent inspirations for the Fall/ Winter 2011 line. The designer’s ideal client is “the lead in that action flick called life and she knows that every time she steps out on the town, it’s another opportunity to steal the scene,” he wrote. That’s exactly what van Haughton is doing; bringing life, art, and fashion, to a city that is yet to be exposed to something as trendy as House of Fetch Couture. Be ready Fresno, the industry of top clothing design is taking over, and soon the city will have its very own fashion week.
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Rampage
10 . Entertainment . September 22, 2010
Meyer vs. Rice The Eternal Vampire Battle
by
Laura Bradley
Rampage Reporter
Many novelists use vampires as their subject matter, but not all authors are created equal. Take for example two modern day vampire writers, Stephanie Meyer and Anne Rice, who are both popular and highly acclaimed for their ability to portray sensuality but are quite different in their writing styles and the manner in which they portray their vampires. While Meyer’s writing is geared more towards a younger generation of readers, usually between the ages of 12
Photo compliments of stmvi.eu
to 15 with a healthy sprinkling of 40+ fans, Rice’s books are definitely reserved for more mature readers, usually those over 18. Meyer’s story line portrays the struggled existence of a young teen, desperate to have sex, yet ultimately unwilling to lose her virginity, and is protected by her vampire lover. Rice, on the other hand, portrays the vampire as being purely based around all the sensations that give the illu- sion of sex without it ever being the genuine article and have little to no human characters that do not die or become vampires
Stephanie Meyer
after a chapter or two. Alongside with the sensuality that has become a staple for modern day vampires, both authors are able to portray the pained existence that has also come to be associated with the vampire over the years. In other words, the struggle of having to take a life in order to preserve one’s self. Aside from the amount of detail and style of writing each author puts into their works, there are two things that set Meyer and Rice apart -- vampire mortality, and vampire emotion. In Meyer’s books, vampires can no longer be killed by the light of day, however while some may think this an entirely new approach to the dark creature, Meyer is not the first writer to allow vampires to walk in the light. Bram Stoker first introduced this idea with his novel Dracula, however The Count isn’t about to start sparkling like a disco ball any time soon. While many would argue that sparkling is hardly frightening, a vampire that cannot be killed by conventional means is horrifying – that is the way it would be if all of Meyer’s vampires were as blood crazed as vampires were originally portrayed as. Aside from being diurnal, Meyer’s vampires have a softer side and are ultimately more human than a vampire should be. On the flip side, Rice provides us with what is known as the Stoker Affect. That is, having vampires that are relatable, but are in the end ultimately godless killing machines, who can be harmed
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only by the light of day, which leaves us with a monster invulnerable to the conventional chinks in their armor. Despite their obvious differences, Rice and Meyer are successful in their own rights. The Twilight Saga has stemmed three movies thus far and released billions of dollars worth of merchandise since it touched the shelves, while The Vampire Chronicles has resulted in two movies, and a Broadway play, along with a few rare pieces of merchandise, and has stemmed such spoof movies as Vampires Suck.
Anne Rice’s texts have been quoted in such table-top rollplaying games as Vampire: The Masquerade, and her novel Ramses the Damned loosely inspired the Mummy series, staring Brenden Fraiser. While it is difficult to compare two obviously stark contrast writers, the media has done it’s fair share of it, and I have tried to do so here in order to give you some more options for reading material in this age where vampires have become the trendy thing. All in all, Rice and Meyer are two sides of the same coin, but as someone who grew up reading vampire lore, I would recommend Anne Rice’s The Vampire Chronicles over Stephanie Meyer’s The Twilight Saga any day.
Photo compliments of christiannews.com
Anne Rice
Rampage Should non-violent offenders be released to save money? Pro
by
Laura Bradley
vs.
Rampage Reporter Crime in Fresno County tends to be higher than in most of California. Typical offenses include murder, manslaughter, rape, robbery and aggravated assault, just to name a few. We have always had the police force to help keep us safe and take the criminals off the streets and locked away. But in these desolate economic times, governments must choose options that are not always popular. Recently, Fresno County Sheriff, Margaret Mimms, was forced to lay off 69 correctional officers due to a $4 million deficit. Additionally, the Federal Court ruled that as a result of overcrowding, Fresno County jails should release up to 500 non-violent offenders. These releases are different than early releases that are done when the jail is simply full, and someone deemed “low risk” is let out to make room for more violent offenders. These newly released inmates are people who, in the eyes of the law, have served their time. With the number of jail inmates increasing each day, the County of Fresno must decide whether to continue to pour scarce resources into expanding jail services or use it in more useful ways. While some might argue the county should just build more jails, the issue is more complex. Releasing nonviolent inmates is not a bad idea, especially when they have not committed serious crimes. We must be willing to consider alternatives to jail, such as psychological treatment centers where offenders are conditioned against criminal acts. They can be trained to obey the rules, take advantage of educational opportunities, or participate in a work programs. While no one likes the idea of repeat offenders running about, the fact is that those being released are not as much of a threat as the people going into the jail. Serious and violent offenders are kept behind bars and locked away despite this deficit, and Sheriff Margaret Mimms is making sure of that. The release of inmates also serves to reduce the workload of parole officers by allowing them to focus mainly on the most violent offenders, the people we need off the streets more than ever. Guards and jail workers are better able to focus on the inmates and give them the help they desperately need Our jails can be a place where rehabilitation starts for inmates. Do we really want to place criminals in a place where they are just going to learn better methods of committing crime? Releasing offenders seems a far more efficient means of maintaining a functioning jail, while keeping the streets of Fresno safe at the same time. The idea of releasing inmates is not an entirely new idea. There are such devices as ankle monitors, most commonly used in house arrest programs to track offenders and parole, so there are already offenders walking amongst us. Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mimms said, “Once we reach that target capacity of just over 1700, we have to stay there, so the release will continue until we get the funding to staff more floors of the jail.” It may not be the easiest of transitions, but it in the end, we will be better for it. We will be devoting scarce resources to where they are needed, not to keeping people locked up.
Con
by
Sebouh Simonian
Rampage Reporter “Don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time.” This saying has been around for a while but it no longer holds true, at least not for many convicted criminals in Fresno County. The whole state and in reality the whole country are in the middle of a huge financial mess, and cuts are being made to everything from education to road work and yes, even law enforcement. In the last few months there has been a major impact on Fresno county law enforcement that has led to the closing of an entire floor of the county’s jail in Downtown Fresno, the early release of hundreds of prisoners in the jail, and the termination of the jobs of correction officers. This was a step necessary because of budget cuts due to an $3.9 million deficit in the county according to Fresno County Sheriff, Margaret Mimms. This action has led to the release of so-called lowrisk offenders; such as those arrested on drug possession, probation violation, and disorderly conduct. T h i s m o v e has been strongly opposed by members of the SEIU u n i o n w h i c h represents many of the correctional officers. They claim this action puts Cartoon Illustration by Austin Verburg the public at risk. Officer Robert Capps said, “We feel that releasing these felony inmates puts the community’s safety in jeopardy.” Mimms defended this action by saying it will help deputies on the streets respond to crimes. She said, “We only have just a little over 200 Deputy Sheriffs county wide.” According to the Fresno Bee, one in five of the prisoners released early from Fresno County return. Early release can send the message to criminals that even if they get caught, they could end up doing less time due to budget problems and over-crowding. One case involved Burnell Simmons, a man who had been released six times from county jail because of over-crowding and budget cuts. Simmons recently admitted to committing at least 40 home invasions. Another early release gone bad in Fresno County, is the story of early parolee, Saul Rojas, who along with another man, is suspected of shooting and killing 26 year-old Edgar Campos back in June of this year. Those are just a few examples of local criminals released early because of the budget, who are suspected of committing new crimes after being released. Releasing prisoners early is not a good idea, since some will re-offend and many have committed more serious crimes but have either not been caught or had it pleaded down to a lesser charge. Keeping citizens in the county safe should be one of the highest priorities, and these kinds of releases should be an absolute last resort. Before this step is taken, all other options should be seriously considered. There are ways to avoid early release, such as closing the county crime lab and using the state’s which could lead to an estimated savings of $1 million a year. Another possible option here in Fresno County would be the creation of a special tax, similar to Measure C from a few years ago, which would be used solely for funding prisons and keeping them open, There are other things that could be cut or scaled back which are much less important than keeping prisoners off the street.
September 22, 2010 . Views .11
Campus Voices What do you think about the controversies surrounding the mosque by ground zero? Dennis Tarvin
Business Major
“It is an emotional issue because what happened during 9/11. It is unfortunate that their religion has become the focal point. If they could relocate it to another area, I think it would be a better idea.”
Marion Tilley
Social Work Major
“I feel like Muslims should be able to build whatever they want, wherever they want. It was a certain Muslim group that caused 9/11, not the religion. Therefore, I feel it shouldn’t be an issue or a controversy. Muslims are still people and they have the right to their own religion.”
Jasmine Washington
Crime Scene Investigator Major
“I feel like they do, but at the same time, they shouldn’t because it is too close to Ground Zero where 9/11 occurred.”
Danae Garza,
Liberal Studies Major
“This is America, and people come here to have freedom and to practice their own form of religion. But in respect to what happened, and the men who hijacked the planes were Muslims, it might be dangerous to built a mosque so close to Ground Zero because there are a lot of hard core Americans who believe that all Muslims are terrorists.”
Jake Severa
Nursing Major
“I understand that it wasn’t the religion itself that attacked us; it was a certain group, but at the same time, you have to understand that it is a touchy subject for Americans. Therefore some people’s boundaries should be respected.”
Nick Grossi, Undecided Major
“I don’t think that it should be an issue; it isn’t like they are supporting terrorism. It is just another religion.”
Clifford Williams, Political Science Major
“We have a constitution and it protects freedom of religion. I believe that they should be able to practice their religion. There is a lot of persecution against Muslim people just because of the terrorist situation, and people want to group Muslims together as if they are all terrorists.”
Campus Voices by Sydney Excinia
Photos by Christina Lee
Rampage
12 . Views . September 22, 2010
How to Fix the Parking at FCC by
Quinn Robinson
Rampage Reporter Another semester is underway at Fresno City College and students find themselves faced with the same problems when it comes to finding a parking spot. They can’t. Every year, The Rampage runs articles discussing the constant problems that parking causes at the beginning of each semester. Students hate the idea of arriving at school 1-2 hours before their first class just to find a spot. The administration probably wishes that they had a magic potion to make all the complaints of parking a thing of the past. While scouring the parking lots of FCC for a place to park my car,
“My solution: Talk to FAX about establishing a shuttle hub at Manchester Center.” I’ve had plenty of time to think of ways to solve this issue that never seems to have an answer. I think I might have found some solutions—and a couple might even solve the wait list problem as well. My first idea will be to form some sort of business relationship with Fresno Area Express. I know that the administration has talked about looking into some sort of partnership in the past or might even have one up and running today, but my idea will take it to the next level. The number 1 argument against building more parking for FCC is that there is no room. That’s true. With a campus that is surrounded by neighborhoods, it is definitely difficult to find unused land to
build more parking lots on. My solution: Talk to FAX about establishing a shuttle hub at Manchester Center. If the college can work with FAX to dedicate 2-3 busses that solely go back and forth from Manchester to the FCC
“While scouring the parking lots of FCC for a place to park my car, I’ve had plenty of time to think of ways to solve this issue that never seems to have an answer.”
FCC Parking Lot F captured on September 20, 2010 campus that would decrease the amount of students waiting for the main bus lines through the city and provide a direct shot to FCC without all the stops in between. To regulate this, the student would need to have a valid college ID for that semester. The IDs would be regulated just like the parking passes; they would have to be a different color for each semester. For those that come from south of Fresno to go to FCC, maybe the college can also have a hub in downtown Fresno next to the county courthouse. Students there would be able to use the parking garages that are nearby and shuttle from there to FCC. If this could not be worked out, then maybe the college should take another approach with FAX and provide students who take the bus to school a 5 percent discount on either the total cost of admission for the semester or their total cost of books at the bookstore. If the college was able to do something like this, it could not only free up
Even if they had to come in for lab, the students would be here less frequently on campus. In order to determine who would be eligible for this incentive, the administration can do something like establishing a minimum GPA that a student would need in order to register for their classes being solely online. Not all classes will be able to be offered online, but I
“I recognize that my ideas might be a little far-fetched, and some might sound like they’re decades before their time.”
think there are more that can that are currently not. My final idea would be for the administration to take a more aggressive approach in promoting car pooling to campus. Today, more people are taking a conscientious effort in helping the
Photo by Abel Cortez
environment, so why not award them in the process? To sign up for this incentive, students would go and purchase a parking pass just like normal. The pass they would receive would be a different color than the regular passes and would have a special identifying marker. To regulate this, the administration could do something like cordon off sections of parking lots solely for the carpoolers. The campus police would check the cars just like every other car for the passes and if cars in the car pool section don’t have their pass properly shown, they will get a ticket. I recognize that my ideas might be a little far-fetched and some might sound like they’re decades before their time. All that was intended in writing this article was to think of some solutions to the problem. Hopefully, the decision makers will take a look at this article and pick something up from it and try to find a solution soon rather than later.
“My final idea would be for the administration to take a more aggressive approach in promoting car pooling to campus.”
Parked cars around campus
Photo by Abel Cortez
some parking spots on campus, but it would also encourage students to think twice before buying textbooks off campus. I think an incentive like a 5 percent discount would have me considering checking the bookstore here first before off campus. My second idea would be to offer more courses online. Even for classes that offer labs. If more students took classes online, that would also free up parking spots.
Cartoon Illustration by Austin Verburg
Rampage
September 22, 2010 . Views .13
Are Tattoos “All that and a bag of chips”?
Aubrie Cook, a student at FCC, regrets a black sun tattoo located Rampage Reporter on her hip bone. It was her first A look around the Fresno City tattoo and she got it when she College campus shows many was only 16 years old. “At first I students inked with tattoos, perma- thought it would be cool, but the nent marks on their bodies. Shows second I saw it, I didn’t like it, and like L. A. Ink have popularized I plan to get it removed.” tattoos and made them a trend in If you’re going to get sometoday’s society. thing that will be on your body But do people get them for the forever then thinking it through right reasons? Some people get should be your top priority. Alyssa them at a young age without much Thompson, a junior at FCC, has thought, but getting a tattoo should several tattoos and there is one be thoroughly thought through. It that she regrets getting. “My artis a decision one has to live with ist wasn’t sober when he did my for a long time. tattoo, and it didn’t come out like I wanted it,” she said. Thompson plans to get her tattoo fixed. Choosing the symbol or image to get inked on your body is an important decision. You want to make sure it is something that means a lot to you and it’s not just something that looks cool. Amber Cabrera has two plumier flowers representing her love for her grandpa and her photo by Kris Goka
Ashley Aguilar
Tattoos used to cover up “Bullsh**t is my life (right arm)” and “Lesson Learned” (left arm)
by
Are We Becoming More Intolerant? by
Melanie Cron
Rampage Reporter
Are we, as a people, becoming more intolerant? If anyone had asked me this question a few weeks ago, my answer would have been, heck yeah we are. We are Americans, the only nation in the world founded on the acceptance of people of all races, religion and culture. We are the people whose constitution guarantees the right to be different. However, recent current events obstruct this ideal with varying degrees of intolerance. Intolerance basically boils down one’s inability to accept another’s ideologies. Current newsworthy intolerances In Florida, Pastor Terry Jones planned to burn copies of the Quran for the anniversary of Sept. 11; he believes that the Quran is “evil because it promotes violence and radicalism.” This is not against his constitutional rights as an American citizen, but many other Americans were outraged at his attempt to ‘make right’ by destroying the Quran; intolerances can be seen on both sides. In New York, there are plans to build a mosque near ground zero. Some believe that building a religious building next to a site of such sadness desecrates the memory of the victims of 9/11 and represents a victory for radi-
cal Islam. Others believe that it is un-American to treat Muslims differently and not allow them the right to practice their religion; this is something we all can do openly. I see it as; we can be labeled as intolerant either way. If we say no, we deny basic constitutional rights and if we say yes, we could open a Pandora’s Box with unimaginable results. “The fact that someone has the right to do something doesn’t necessarily make it the right thing to do,” House Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio, said in a written statement. “That is the essence of tolerance, peace and understanding. This is not an issue of law, whether religious freedom or local zoning. This is a basic issue of respect of a tragic moment in our history.” In Arizona intolerance is at an all-time high. A law passed that gives authority for lawmen to stop anyone that ‘appears’ to be an immigrant and ask for papers. There are many mixed emotions about this, some feel that this is us; the American people at our worst. Racial profiling is an example of us being intolerant to the diversity that our country is known for. Others feel that this is the law and if people are not coming legally, they should go back home. This makes them intolerant of our laws and our systems. Either way you slice it, someone is being intolerant of someone else.
photography major
photo by
Alyssa Papalel enjoys having her tattoos
grandma etched on her upper leg. She has no regrets and in fact loves having the art on her body because her tattoo means something to her. Michael Espinoza, a sophomore, has an Aztec warrior tattoo on his arm. He said, “My tattoo represents my heritage and where
I came from; it shows my pride.” He had thought about what he was going to get for years before he got it done. He said, “It’s a pretty hard thing to decide what you are going to get, because it is on your body for life, so it’s got to have some deep meaning.”
Kris Goka
Tattoos are works of art, but they are works of art that are on your body for life. Before you go out and get stars tattooed on you because it looks “cute” you should really think to yourself “Will I want this on me 20 years from now?”
R-E-S-P-E-C-T 12-steps to being a respectful person:
by
Phillip Romar
Rampage Reporter Every day, I see disrespect on campus – people disrespecting themselves and others. It’s time to end it.
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Politeness Cat calls do not work. When a man, (there are no A l l t h e “ AY E G I R L . boys here) opens the door WHAT’S YOUR NUMBER?” for you, say “Thank you.” It “AYE BABY.” “YOU CUTE makes you look attractive. Don’t just GIRL.” DROP IT LIKE IT IS HOT. rudely pass by without even looking It’s embarrassing the lady and makat him. ing you look bad screaming across campus like you don’t have any sense of manners.
Learn how to use a belt. Remember the long black strap that your parents whooped you with? It also has another purpose. It keeps your pants up. So Guys, use it. We’re sick of seeing your cowboy boxers.
Always remember the power Be Benevolent. Keep your hands off the of Magic words. Why laugh if you merchandise. If you bump into somebody see someone drop Men, it is best to just or if someone bumps into you, their things? Be nice keep your hands in your there is a 99.94% chance that it was and help pick them up. For pockets. Stop trying to touch every an accident. There is no need to curse, the single men out there, that woman that passes by you. fight, or yell. might even get you a date.
Bless you When someone sneezes, say bless you. If you sneeze and someone says “Bless you,” say “Thank you.”
Say Excuse Me Whenever you accidentally tap someone or need to get through a crowded area make sure to say excuse me to be polite to others.
PEOPLE PLEASE Respect yourself when you dress. Women, please cover your “GOODIES.”
Greetings Say Good Morning! Good Evening. Good Afternoon. Want to be noticed? Saying these at the right time of the day works.
Be Courteous Always be aware of other’s feelings and don’t be rude.
MOST IMP O R TA N TLY: Treat others the way you want to be treated.
14 . Sports. September 22, 2010
Rampage
Rams Volleyball starts 2010 season 8-2 Coach expects team to compete for conference title this year. by
Chanel Dismuke Rampage Reporter
Tracy Schulte sits relaxed and secure, giving off an air of experience and confidence in the skill and potential in this season’s volleyball team. The team consists of only 11 players, a slightly smaller number than usual, with six returning and five incoming freshman. However, the team boasts six coaches including head coach Tracy Ainger-Schulte, each specializing in a particular position which boosts the one-on-one learning opportunities for players. The team has experienced a few difficulties since tryouts. “Fluctuations [in potential team members] and not knowing who would be competing for positions caused stress for the team,” said Schulte. “In the end, it made the team closer.” Schulte joked about how little height the volleyball team has this year, but said she was proud about how athletic the women are. In practice, the players are gaining experience in all positions in order to maximize the team’s versatility and potential offensive and defensive maneuvers. This will help them be effective against teams with a height and perhaps slight offensive advantage, Schulte said.
At the moment, the volleyball team can only boast of one middle blocker, returning player Maureen Brown, who shows a lot of potential and is a player to watch, said Schulte who admitted that having only one middle blocker can be a challenge.
Schulte is looking at having the players run a 6-2 offense, which simply means that all players are able to hit at all times because two setters will be in the game. Sophomore Kaylee Schanda and freshman setter Michelle
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Only 11 players make up Women’s Volleyball, Fresno City College Gym on Sept. 15
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Clark are up and coming players to watch to provide the needed defense and give the Rams offense the opportunity to gain points. Freshman Alex Paredes and sophomore Amanda Michael are outside hitters and offensive players to keep an eye on. Schulte said she is count-
ing on Michaels to step up as a middle blocker to help the Rams succeed this season. FCC opens their conference schedule tonight against Reedley College here at 6 p.m. before traveling to Merced College Sept. 29 at 6 p.m.
SPORTS SCHEDULE WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL WED. SEPT. 22 WED. SEPT. 29 FRI. OCT. 1 WED. OCT. 6 FRI. OCT. 8 WED. OCT. 13 FRI. OCT. 15 WED. OCT. 20 WED. OCT. 27 FRI. OCT. 29 WED. NOV. 3 FRI. NOV. 5 WED. NOV. 10 FRI. NOV. 12
REEDLEY MERCED COS TAFT COLUMBIA WEST HILLS PORTERVILLE REEDLEY MERCED COS TAFT COLUMBIA WEST HILLS PORTERVILLE
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WOMEN’S GOLF Thur. Sept. 23 Valley oaks golf course Thur. Sept. 30 Suttertown Invitational Oct. 3 - 4 North/South Invitational Thur. Oct. 7 Kings River Country Club Tue. Oct. 12 Riverbend Golf Course Thur. Oct. 14 Fig Garden Golf Course Tue. Oct. 19 Fig Garden Golf Course Thur. Oct. 21 TBA Tue. Oct. 26 Kings River Country Club Thur. Oct. 28 TBA Tue. Nov. 2 Riverside Golf Course Nov. 8-9 Fresno Nov. 15-16 So. Calif.
1:00 11:00 TBA 1:00 1:00 12:00 12:00 12:00 1:00 12:00 12:00 TBA TBA
For more information go to www.fresnocitycollege.edu
Rampage
September 22, 2010 . Sports . 15
“Hail Mary” saves FCC from 0-2 start
TD reception by Corvaughn Archie with :05 lifts Rams past West Hills.
by
Marcell Dilworth Rampage Reporter
On the verge of going 0-2, the FCC football team was looking for a miracle. That miracle came Saturday night in the form of 6’1 sophomore wide receiver Corvaughn Archie. On West Hills’ 31 yard line with five seconds left on the clock, quarterback Lance Orender dropped back and threw a jump ball toward the end zone that Archie caught off a tip to secure the victory for FCC 20-19. Archie, described what happened after he saw the ball tipped toward his direction. “Leroy [Travis] tipped the ball and I saw it, then I grabbed it,” Archie said. “The defensive player was distraught and trying to take the ball out of my hand with tears coming out of his eyes, but I wasn’t letting it go.” FCC overcame a game full of mental mistakes, including a handful of dropped passes by Archie. “We, pretty much, got out played on both sides of the ball, but our team never quit,” said Rams head coach Tony Caviglia. “They a missed bunch of tackles, and dropped balls, but they never gave up.” West Hills had control of the game
early on as they consistently pushed the ball up the field and entered half time leading FCC 10-0. It wasn’t until the third quarter when the Rams started making their move and showing everyone in the stands that there was anThe Rams secure their first win of the 2010 season on the final play of the game. other half to be played. Jacob Holloway pounced on the that easily. After receiving the kickoff to ball to give the Rams great field The Falcons worked their way start the second half, FCC marched position. back into the lead in the fourth down the field on West Hills. The The offense headed back onto quarter with a field goal and a Falcons’ defense tried to stiffen up the field on the West Hills 27 yard touchdown. their attack, but the Rams had a line hoping to score once again. West Hills went for two points trick up their sleeve. The Rams found themselves in after scoring the touchdown but The Rams lined up in the wildcat prime position to take the lead failed to convert on the play. formation with running back Larry once West Hills defensive back, The Falcons now had a 19-14 Overstreet lined up as the quarter Matt Hawkins, was flagged for lead with under eight minutes left back. pass interference in the end zone. in the fourth quarter. Overstreet faked the West Hills The penalty put the ball on the After both teams couldn’t capidefense like he was about to take three yard line, and the Rams put talize on any more scoring the preoff running, but Overstreet then the ball in the end zone on third vious seven minutes of the quarter, dropped back and threw the ball and goal to go up 14-10 with just the Rams offense started their final to a wide open receiver in the end under eight minutes left in the drive on the 36 yard with just over zone for six points. third quarter. one minute left in the game. On the ensuing kickoff, the FalWest Hills wasn’t going to allow FCC marched down the field cons botched the return and FCC’s FCC to run away with the game with a sense of urgency as Orender
Photo courtesy of Gina Tollison
found open receivers as he tried to lead the Rams down the field for the victory. The Rams now had the ball down on the Falcons’ 31 yard line with five seconds left in the game. Archie described his thoughts as he was nearing the line of scrimmage for what would be the final play of the game. “I missed a few passes before that play,” said Archie. “I prayed and said ‘Lord let me make this play to win the game.’” Archie made the play to not only win the game but it also prevented FCC from starting the 2010 season 0-2 heading into their first home game on Sept. 25 against Merced.
16 . Sports. September 22, 2010
Rampage
FCC women’s soccer loses to American River 2-0 Loss snaps FCC’s 5 game streak: Rams are shut out for the second time this season. Quinn Robinson
The Rams are lead on offense by Jesslyn Fagundes. Fagundes was a key factor in last year’s team that just missed the state final four. Germond believes that opposing teams will pay more attention to Fagundes this year when she has the ball. “I think teams will pay a lot more attention to her,” Germond said. “She will need to be more patient and capitalize when she has her chances and set up her teammates when she draws attention.”
Going into the Sept. 17 game with American River, the Rams were ranked The Fresno City College No. 9 in the National Socwomen’s soccer team looked cer Coaches Association to improve their current win of America poll. streak to six games after opening The next NSCAA rankthe season with a loss to No. 1 ings came out on Sept. 21, ranked Santiago Canyon. after this article was sent American River had other to press. ideas however as they traveled Even with the setback of to Fresno and knocked off the a loss to American River, Rams 2-0 on Sept. 17. Germond feels that his “We’re not looking to avenge team has improved since what happened last season,” the start of the season. said FCC women’s head coach “ We k n o w Oliver Germond, we can win referring to the 1-0 close games loss the Rams sufand our defered at the hands of fense has been We just need to keep improving the Beavers in last outstanding,” year’s state playGermond said. so we can be a better team and offs. “ We s t i l l not just rely on our individual “We don’t like to have a lot we athleticism. lose, but if we are need to imgoing to lose this prove espetime of the year we cially our level - Oliver Germond better have learned of intensity that Photo by Sendy Garcia from it. I think this we play with Fresno City College players vie for a loose ball was also a good lesoff the ball. We just “We have a lot of potential another win streak as they take son for us because we got too Before FCC suffered their need to keep improving so but we need to get all the pieces on Sierra, West Valley and De comfortable after winning 5 second loss of the season, the we can be a better team and together at the right time of the Anza in the next two weeks games in a row and not giving Rams went a total of five games not just rely on our individual season.” before an Oct. 1 showdown with up a goal.” without allowing a single goal. athleticism. The Rams will look to start Cabrillo. by
Rampage Reporter
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Rams lose a tough one Scoring opportunities evade Rams as they lose to Las Positas at home. by
Quinn Robinson Rampage Reporter
The Fresno City College men’s soccer team suffered their third loss of the season as Las Positas took a hard fought match in Fresno 2-1. After starting the 2010 season with a 0-2-1 record, the Rams were looking to gather their fourth consecutive win of the season as they took on the Hawks Sept. 14. FCC’s men’s soccer coach Eric Solberg said that the inability to cash in on the early opportunities provided Las Positas the chance to stay in the game longer. “We got behind them right away and tried to force the ball down their throat instead of holding onto the ball,” said Solberg. “Sometimes [the missed opportunities] come back and bite you. We could’ve been up two or three nothing early in the game and didn’t do that.” Las Positas’ men’s soccer coach Ramiro Rodriquez described the Hawks’ plan of attack going into their meeting with the Rams. “The last five years, Fresno has always been very aggressive when playing against us,” said Rodriquez. “In prior years we played defensively because we
knew they were stronger than us. This year we just go in there and do the Mike Tyson first round and take them on.” FCC came out aggressive in the first half. The Rams created a handful of chances to put the game away early but were unable to capitalize on any of them. With the Hawks defense under constant pressure from the Rams offense, it seemed that the Hawks were playing on borrowed time before the Rams would finally cash in. Las Positas took advantage of the constant pressure that FCC provided on a weird play that had Rams defenders, as well as their fans, in complete shock. Luis Rocha started the scoring for Las Positas when he delivered a shot that deflected off a Rams defender and sailed into the net to put the Hawks up 1-0 in the first half. The Rams came out in the second half with the same game plan that they had to start the game. FCC continued to attack on Las Positas’ side of the field most of the second half, searching for the goal that could tie the game up. The Hawks defense proved relentless this day however and Las Positas once again capitalized late in the game on the Rams’ aggressiveness. Las Positas’ Gerardo Garcia sent a header past FCC’s Tad Patrick to put the Hawks up 2-0 late in the second half.
Down 2-0, the Rams still showed they had fight left in them. Herb Garzon executed a brilliant shot from the left side that sailed past the Hawks’ goalie to give FCC and their fans a little hope down the final stretch of the game. Las Positas proceeded to spread the field out for the remainder of the game to squash any comeback chances the Rams were hoping for on the way to the 2-1 victory. After securing the insurance goal late in the second half, Rodriquez believed that the Hawks had to continue playing aggressively to keep the Rams from coming back. “If we back up right there it was too much time for them,” said Rodriquez. “We still wanted to play them toe-to-toe until the last ten minutes. If we still had [the 2 goal lead] in the last ten minutes then we’d play more defensively to secure the win.” A team that posted a 14-5-5 record in 2009 with a trip to the state semi-finals, FCC is currently 3-31 and has already allowed more goals in the first seven games this season (16) than they did all of last season (15). “We won three in a row and didn’t come in prepared,” said Solberg. “We knew we were playing a team that probably wasn’t as good as us, our first home game, and we just didn’t come out ready
Photo By Gabriella Ramirez
Fresno City College suffers a tough loss at the hands of Las Positas on Sept. 14. to play today.” The Rams opponents in the coming weeks include a match against Lassen College on Sept.
27 before opening conference play on Oct. 1 against COS at Fresno and then traveling to Modesto for a nonconference game on Oct. 5.