Issue 7 Spring 2018

THE

RAMPAGE Student-Run Newspaper of Fresno City College

Spring 2018 Issue 7 May 2, 2018

NEW ASG OFFICERS ELECTED

Despite INCREDIBLE ODDS

Tasha Turner | Reporter tturner@therampageonline.com

AN UNLIKELY JOURNEY TO GRADUATION

Robin White graduates from Fresno City College on May 18 despite incredible hardships. Photo/Larry Valenzuela

Anjanae Freitas | Reporter afreitasr@therampageonline.com

Four years ago, Robin White was struggling with depression, anxiety and addiction. She had just been diagnosed with Graves’ disease, and she was not sure she would ever return to a college classroom or graduate from college.

Now, White will walk the stage at the Selland Arena on May 18 to receive an Associate in Arts de-

gree in human services, alcohol and drug counseling.

“It was a dream I’ve had since I was younger,” White says.

Now, two weeks from graduation, White, 55, is making a final push to attain one of her biggest life goals.

“It is going to be the biggest battle for me because of my Graves’ disease and thyroidectomy,” she said.

In her time at Fresno City Col-

lege, White has maintained a 4.0 GPA every semester. “That’s not because I think I’m Einstein,” she said. “I think it’s because of my passion.”

White said she hates to leave FCC and would love to work at the college; she is leaning towards becoming a counselor at a treatment center.

“I consider Fresno City College like a family,” she said. “I have not had one professor I did not like or

that didn’t instill something into me.”

She said she is grateful for the support she received as a student.

“God put amazing people in my life,” White said. “And I just want to pay back and pay it forward by helping other people with all the resources, love and support I have received.”

White struggles with depression and anxiety and she wants to use her experience to help others.

Continued on Page 4, GRADUATE

Gubernatorial Candidate Antonio Villaraigosa Visits FCC PAGE 3

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OPINION

Planning a summer vacation? Here’s how one student travels on a budget

The RAMPAGE

Continued on Page 2, ASG

Asian Fest Returns

Photo/Larry Valenzuela

Visit our Facebook and Instagram to win tickets to the Festival of Colors on May 5

Christopher Washington was elected president of the Associated Student Government on April 30.

Also, Angela Van Guilder was elected vice president, and Carlos “Chuck” Rodriguez was chosen as the new student trustee.

Washington is the first African-American president elect in the history of student government at FCC. “Due to me being the first African-American ASG president, there will be a higher standard that is expected of me from the African-American community,” Washington said.

He says his main goal as ASG president is to make students’ lives easier.

“Student hunger is a main problem that we are facing on campus, and I want to create a system in which your card has more value than just identification,” Washington said. “I want to implement a system in which your ID card is also your gas card, meal card and electronic parking pass.”

Another concern Washington and Guilder want to address is safety. Washington said he is seeking to implement changes that will be proactive towards student safety.

Many FCC students are expressing concerns about safety with the ASG, particularly about the sexual assault in a parking lot on campus last fall.

“We are currently working with campus police to come up with ways of improving safety as well as preparing students for emer-

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Entertainment

What’s next for retirees Mike Dana and Larry Honda?

@RAMPAGENEWS

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2 NEWS 5.2.18

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THE RAMPAGE Students For Sustainable Action Club Aims For A Zero-Waste Campus The student-run newspaper of Fresno City College

EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Ashleigh Panoo

News/Multimedia Editor Larry Valenzuela Art Director Ramuel Reyes Sports Editor Anthony De Leon Enterainment Editor Noah Villaverde Social Media Editor Omari Bell Opinion Editor Tommy Tribble REPORTERS Claudia Chavez Anjanae Freitas Andrew Leal Loren Marcotte Jamila McCarty Gabbi Micheli Paulina Rodríguez Ruiz Sasha Saunders Stefanie Verdugo-Tholen Jose Serrano Tasha Turner

Business Manager Maria Aguilar Adviser/Instructor Dympna Ugwu-Oju

Contact Us Tip Line 559-422-8262 Letters to the Editor editorial@therampageonline.com Corrections media@therampageonline.com Any correction needed for an article should be brought to the attention of the staff of The Rampage. The Rampage is committed to accuracy and should be made aware of any mistake in an article that appears in this paper.

Views expressed in the opinion pages are those of the individual writer and not of the newspaper.

The Rampage is produced by students of the Journalism 11 A, B, C, D class.

Gabbi Micheli | Reporter jmicheli@therampageonline.com

As the spring semester comes to an end and the summer begins, students prepare for what the fall semester will bring. The new semester brings new clubs, activities, and events to Fresno City College, one of such being the Students for Sustainable Action club.

The club, established nearly 15 years ago, is hoping to make a reappearance and a bigger impact on the FCC campus.

The club was first brought to the college in 2004, with instructor Paul Gilmore as the advisor.

According to Mark Colley, former vice president of the club, the club was known for engaging in interesting projects.

“People may remember our ‘bottle monster,’ which was dozens of empty plastic bottles strung together and worn like a robe, “ Colley said. “One of my personal favorites was a solarpowered oven we used to heat up and sell tortillas. Some people also remember our free bicycle repair clinics on campus, and our composting and gardening in the botanical garden.”

The club began to fall apart due to members graduating and not many new members to take care of the organization and hold the projects together. Today, the biggest challenge the club faces is finding students to activate the club again.

Now, Colley, Gilmore, and

a few students are hoping to reestablish the club after the help it offered to students and the community.

Gurleen Panoo is one of such students at FCC who hope to enlighten the college about the benefits of the club to the environment. She said she heard about the club after taking a class from Gilmore and was hooked.

“The main goal for the club is for Fresno City College to be as zero waste and environmentally friendly as possible,” Panoo said.

Right now, the club regularly works on the compost pile tending a few plots dedicated to the club at the botanical garden.

What separates the Students for Sustainable Action club from others is that “each member brings their interest, such as cycling, composting, etc. and we group those things together and learn from each other, and you make a lot of friends in the process,” Colley said.

Despite the setback of finding interested students to join, Colley said the club is important, not only for FCC, but the Fresno community as well.

“My goal is to help remind new members of what is possible with this club, by telling them about the creative and impactful things that were done by students who came before them,” Colley said. “I hope that they will carry on the torch and make the kind of difference they would like to see at this school.”

Fashion Week Will Kick Off With Versace Fashion Show Tribute Anjanae Freitas | Reporter afreitas@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College will present a tribute to the Versace Fashion Show on May 3 at 6 p.m. at the FCC rose garden near the front of the Old Administration Building.

The evening will be full of mocktails hor d’oeuvres, fashion, and art. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Eventbrite.com A menu full of dishes will be created by owner of Mâche, Chef Kellie Black, who will be accompanied by culinary students and Chef Jonathan Davey, a culinary arts instructor.

From 6:45 to 7 p.m. there will

be a musical performance by upcoming artist Faryeshyi Allahdin, along with music by Phil Howard.

From 7 to 7:30 p.m., Versace themed pieces will be presented, designed by fashion instructor Talene Karkazian, FCC fashion merchandising students, and instructor Amber Balakian’s entrepreneurship students.

Art by instructor Kevin Stewart-Magee and FCC art students will also be on display.

All proceeds from the event will be donated directly to the FCC fashion show department and FCC entrepreneurship programs.

DIVISION OF FINE, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS

May Music Events Six-String Showcase

May 3 • 7:30pm • OAB Auditorium • $5 donation at door

Student Recital

May 4 • 12:00pm • Recital Hall

Intermediate/Advanced Piano Recital May 4 • 7:30pm • OAB Auditorium

Spring Chorale Concert: Moving Through the Journey of Life May 6 • 3:00pm • OAB Auditorium $8 General, $6 Staff & Seniors, $5 Students

Past, Present, Future: 28 Years of Jazz at FCC May 7 • 7:30pm • Theatre $8 General, $6 Staff & Seniors, $5 Students

Jazz Singers & Latin Jazz Ensemble

May 8 • 7:30pm • Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater • Call (559) 266-9494 for tickets

Honors Recital & Scholarship Awards May 9 • 7:30pm • OAB Auditorium

String Ensemble

Child Development Center To Hold ‘Star Wars’ Themed Carnival Anjanae Freitas | Reporter afreitas@therampageonline.com

The Fresno City College Child Development Center will hold its annual spring carnival on May 4 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m at the center’s playground.

This year’s family event theme is “May the 4th Be With You.” An entrance fee of $5 will be charged for anyone over 18, along with cost of 50 cents per game.

Wearing “Star Wars” themed costumes is encouraged; however, frightening costumes and masks are prohibited.

The event will be full of carnival games, food and activities for children and parents to participate in.

ASG, FROM PAGE 1

gency situations,” Guilder said.

“Coming from a public relations background, I have the ability to create a safe haven for students while allowing them to be able to talk about all of their issues,” Washington said.

Guilder says every low income student should be able to obtain some sort of scholarship. “I want to look into the possibility of creating small scholarships for students on campus who are low income, yet do not fall within the EOP&S or DSPS guidelines,” Guilder said.

“I did not join ASG to be silent and not see things through,” Rodriguez said, adding that he is pushing for a double decker parking lot.

“When you buy a parking permit, it’s just like buying a hunting permit,” he said. “Come the beginning of the semester, if you’re not [at FCC] early, you’re hunting for a parking place.”

Along with more parking spaces, Rodriguez says he is working on giving students flash

drives and pens.

Keeping in touch with students is important, Washington said. “I will be sending periodical email blasts to make sure that I am successfully interacting with the students,” he added.

“The sky’s the limit,” Rodriguez said. “It’s just a matter of getting the backing from the students.”

May 10 • 5:00pm • Recital Hall

Opera Workshop: Dido & Aeneas May 13 • 7:30pm • OAB Auditorium

www.fresnocitycollege.edu/boxofficetickets

State Center Community College District Christopher Washington. Photo/Larry Valenzuela

5.2.18 NEWS 3

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student makes prom season less expensive for OTHERS Sasha Saunders | Reporter

ssaunders@therampageonline.com

A Fresno City College student is making prom season less expensive for girls in need.

Sophia Bautista, a political science major at FCC, took to Twitter on April 8 to offer her past prom dresses to girls who were on a budget. She’s also providing a makeup artist, and a nail service free of charge to girls who take her up on her offer.

Of the dresses she’s lending out, one is long, red and strapless, and the other is a short white formal style dress, both size small. Since her tweet, three girls have asked to borrow a dress, Bautista said.

Along with the kind comments and replies Bautista is receiving, other girls on Twitter have also made posts offering to lend out their prom dresses to students who cannot afford it.

Courtesy of Twitter

Bautista explained that because of her insecurities throughout high school, her parents spent a little over $400 to make sure her own senior prom night was special.

“I got to feel beautiful because I could afford to be, and it meant a lot to me that my parents were able to drop that much money for something as trivial but as special as prom,” Bautista said. “I want that for every girl.”

A girl’s big night can become costly between the dress, hair, makeup, and shoes. Along with that is the cost of tickets and transportation. Students in the Western U.S. spend over $600 each on their prom, according to yahoo’s Prom Across America Survey.

Bautista explained that because her parents are Asian-American

immigrants, she assumed they would be upset about how much her prom cost, but instead they said nothing as a gift to her.

“I felt so beautiful that night when I put that red dress on, and had my makeup and hair done,” she said. “For the first time, I felt like I possessed the kind of beauty that didn’t need validation, and I want every girl to have that moment where they just can’t deny that they look gorgeous.

That’s why I had the prom dress drive.”

Bautista, 19, has made other headlines for her community involvement in the past year. She organized last September’s DACA protest in Fresno’s Tower District which brought hundreds, and she also spoke at the second annual Central Valley Women’s March.

2018 Gubernatorial Candidate Stops at FCC Andrew Leal | Reporter aleal@therampageonline.com

The Health and Sciences Forum Hall was filled to the brim on April 25 with students waiting anxiously for gubernatorial candidate Antonio Villaraigosa to arrive.

Most students were ready with questions. Others were there simply because their political science class was awarding extra credit.

No matter the students’ reason for being in the forum hall on that hot day, they all wanted to hear Villaraigosa.

When Villaraigosa finally arrives, he starts with a simple introduction on his life.

“I didn’t grow up with a silver spoon,” Villaraigosa said. “[I] grew up in a home with domestic violence and alcoholism, grew up in the Ellis Island of LA where all the immigrants went.”

Villaraigosa said he is from a third generation immigrant family but was born poor and went through multiple schools because he was either kicked out or he dropped out.

“It was my mom and a high school teacher who gave me a second chance,” Villaraigosa said.

“A community gave me a shot and made me realize, ‘Hey I could do this.’”

Villaraigosa attended East Los Angeles Community College, and later law school at the University of California, Los Angeles.

“To whom much is given, much

is expected, and I believe we need to take this dream by the horns and shine it up a bit,” Villaraigosa said.

Villaraigosa explained he would focus on education, middle class jobs and investing in future generations.

Villaraigosa answered a number of students’ questions, including how he would advise a person who wants to get into politics.

“Get involved in community,” he advised. “And then, never, ever, forget where you came from.”

Villaraigosa started out in the community, doing voter registration. He was a community organizer for 25 years and a labor leader for 15 years. “I didn’t run for office till I was 39 years old,” he said. He was also involved in the farm worker boycott and fighting for immigrants.

On dealing with youth in the streets who are struggling and are lost and need guidance, Villaraigosa said he believes in second chances.

“Somebody took a chance on me,” he said. “I would say to them, you know, you can change your life around, and an education will open up doors for you.”

On California’s perennial water issue, Villaraigosa said, “I’m for the farmers because they put the food on our table.”

He said he will focus on clean drinking water.

“I think we have to build Sites [reservoir] and Temperance [flat dam], two dams that we promised

California Gubernatorial Candidate Antonio Villaraigosa (center) answers questions from FCC students about issues facing the Central Valley and more. Photo/Andrew Leal

a long time ago here in the Central Valley,” Villaraigosa said. “I think cities have to recycle [water] dramatically more. We have to have an all of the above strategy.”

Villaraigosa said said he would actively try to dismantle the massive prison system in the state.

“I took on Three Strikes You’re Out. I took on the death penalty.

I supported [Proposition] 47 and [Proposition] 57,” Villaraigosa said.

He said that investing in education, workforce training, mental health and drug rehab and job re-entry training.”

Villaraigosa said he wants to leverage the high speed rail for economic development in the Valley and for diversifying the economy.

“I recognize that it can’t keep on going up like this,” Villaraigosa

said. “But the biggest reason why I am for it, is for the Valley.”

He said he has stood up for immigrants because they are human beings.

“They come here to work,” Villaraigosa said. “They’re working hard. Let them work.” People hire them for a reason; they work hard.”

He said he believes in having immigration laws and that every country should have them.

“We have to fix our broken immigration system,” Villaraigosa said. “Stop screaming at one another.” He said Dreamers have a right to get an education.

On his standing in the polls and getting registered Latino voters to the polls, Villaraigosa said, he is not focused on the polls.

“I’m focused on creating more

middle class jobs and really convincing people that the challenge ahead of us is to grow together as a state, to restore that California dream,” he said.

He is optimistic about his chances in the elections. “I’m focused on really doing what I can to convince people that we have to make this economy work for more people,” Villaraigosa said.

“We have to build more middle class jobs. That is the challenge.”

Villaraigosa said civic engagement is really important in his campaign. “I want to engage people, that’s why I’m coming to Fresno City College to inspire these young people,” Villaraigosa said.

“Get involved, vote; that’s a good thing,” Villaraigosa said.

“I’ve always been a big believer when more people vote, the better for all of us.”

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GRADUATE, FROM PAGE 1

“I have just been determined to overcome and I have more empathy for people because of what I have struggled with,” White said.

White was born and raised in Kingsburg, California and moved to Fresno five years ago, determined to go to school and pursue her life-long goal of becoming a counselor.

White raised her two daughters, Kara, 33, and Kailee, 19, as a single mother, became a published author, was an English tutor at FCC, and will soon add a graduating student to her list of her many accomplishments.

During the process of White’s move to Fresno in 2013, she was diagnosed with Graves’ disease and had a thyroidectomy.

“I was not able to maintain my apartment; also my mom was going through

“

it has given me self-awareness and everything i need to be a counselor. i had made mistakes and learned things the hard way, but it has been humbling.”

-Robin White

Graduate

radiation treatment for breast cancer,” she said. “On top of everything, I was then homeless for a while and staying with a friend.”

White said her faith in God got her through the hardest times.

“Lord if you would just help me, I would go back to college,” White remembers saying before she applied to college. “And I will become a counselor and I will help other people.”

She also prayed for the opportunity to write after people told her she had a niche for her poetry she shared on Facebook.

In 2012, a man named John Taylor approached her on Facebook and expressed an interest in her writing.

She wrote his biography, “Make My Life a Bible,” a book about miracles. “Just knowing that God helped me with that process gave me the courage to think if I can do that, there must be a way for me to go back to college,” White said.

She said she decided to take leaps of faith.” I realized I was getting older, and if I wanted to accomplish anything that it could not happen by me just sitting around praying about it. I had to take action,” White said. “Being a low income, single parent and just thinking I need to work fulltime, I was not aware of all the resources and the support that was available to be able to do that at an older age, otherwise I would have done it years ago.”

Outside of school, White dedicates some of her time to her church, doing community work with youth, and feeding the homeless. She is the creator of the dream team at Celebration Church were she greets people and makes people feel welcome. “I talk to them so they don’t feel judged, and that no matter what they’re going through, there’s a place for them to go,” White said.

“This has been about the journey, and not the destination, and even though my goal was to become a counselor, I realized that during the journey, God was using all these counseling and social work classes to bring healing to me,” White said. “It has given me self-awareness and everything I need to be a counselor. I had made mistakes and learned things the hard way, but it has been humbling.”

Robin White. Photo/Larry Valenzuela

Important Graduation Dates MAY 10 MAY 11 MAY 12 Honors Recognition Ceremony

Certificate Ceremony

Latino Graduation Celebration

7 p.m in the OAB Auditorium, Room 251; students who have earned honors will be celebrated for their academic excellence.

Honor Recognitions include Highest Honors 3.5-4.0 GPA; High Honors 3.3-3.49; Phi Theta Kappa; Alpha Gamma Sigma; Leon S. Peters Honors Program, and the Dean’s Medallion Recipients.

5:30 p.m. in the OAB Auditorium ; students will be celebrated for their academic excellence via an invitation letter to the ceremony from FCC Vice President of student services Lataria Hall.

10 a.m. This graduation will celebrate Latino students and their families.

asian and pacific islander celebration OAB Auditorium from 10:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m. in the OAB East Courtyard. This graduation is a celebration for Asian and Pacific Islander students and their families.

African American Graduates CelebratioN from 2 to 4 p.m in the OAB 251. The event, sponsored by the FCC African American Faculty and Staff Association, will be a celebration of African American Students graduating as well as their families.

MAY 18 Commencement Ceremony 6:30 p.m. at the Selland Arena for students who have earned an Associate degree from the previous summer, fall, or this spring.

5.2.18 ENTERTAINMENT 5

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Larry Honda speaks to the crowd at a performance at the Fresno City College Theatre on Tuesday, March 14, 2018. Photo/Larry Valenzuela

Retiring Music Legends Reflect on Careers and What’s Next For Them Noah Villaverde | Entertainment Editor nvillaverde@therampageonline.com

As music instructors Mike Dana and Larry Honda prepare to retire after this semester, The Rampage asked the pair to reflect on their legacies. Dana has taught at Fresno City College for 28 years, and Honda for 21.

When you two look back at your first day here at FCC, how do you compare that time to now? What accomplishments jump to your mind?

Mike Dana: When I started, I don’t think I knew how complicated everything was going to be because I was coming here and was going to teach jazz classes.

And there’s that whole process of where do you go to get a bus to a festival, and how do you do this and who signs that form. So I think there was kind of a really big learning curve, so that was my first week’s impressions. And as far as accomplishments, I just look at what all of our students have done and how they’ve gone on to be great performers, great teachers or they’re continuing their education. That means a lot to me, looking back seeing that happen.

Larry Honda: For me, I was coming from teaching K-12 -everything from little children to the marching band, but that was junior high and high school.

Coming here to a college, that was a whole different situation. I felt that as a teacher, I was treated more professionally by the administration, but also the students because they all had very-set goals and that changed my attitude because when you’re teaching public school music, it’s like giving them the experience and that’s your goal. Now, it gets a little more serious because students are look-

ing towards their future career.

I felt a responsibility to instruct them in the subject matter but also as time went on, even to try to provide whatever counseling I could for their futures.

How would you two describe working together as fellow music instructors here at FCC? Dana: If we weren’t coworkers here, we would still be playing music together. I think our work here together is a reflection of us enjoying a lot of the same types of music and we have a lot of the same circle of friends, and we find ourselves at a lot of the same gigs.

So it makes work feel less like work to me.

Honda: Yeah, we have known each other as musicians for many years. He was here before I was, so once I got here, then we became colleagues as far as teachers, so now, the depth of our sharing

“

When I started, I don’t think i knew how complicated everything was going to be.”

-Mike Dana

Retiring music instructor

was a lot more [prominent]. The things that we have here at school, everything from teaching the students [and] the subject matter but also how the department was run, Mike was the department chair, so we were working in that way.

Just the things that are involved in teaching at a college, I feel like I got close with Mike in that regard too. But there was always the music part, so we share a lot of similar experiences here.

“

i don’t have any set exact plan.”

-Larry Honda

Mike Dana plays the piano in a performance at the Fresno City College Theatre on Tuesday, March 14, 2018. Photo/Larry Valenzuela

Honda: I think once they leave here and they look back, I hope that felt that they are prepared for that next level even more so than other folks. That would be really great. [I hope] that they had really great experiences here whether it is playing in groups or in the classroom or maybe just a conversation with an instructor.

That’s all we can ask.

Given music will always be part of your lives, what are your plans after this semester?

REtiring music instructor What were your goals in instructing students through with a great Broadway or travelthe years to become the best ing show and she’s now the per- Honda: After this semester, I am cussionist with “Hamilton”. She’s going into retirement and so is musicians they could be? going all over the place doing ex- Mike. I don’t have any set exact Honda: Well, I wanted to help them achieve their goals because they come with certain ideas for goals. Sometimes, they don’t have an idea and I hope to steer them in the right direction there in anyway I can. It may be specific things in regards to music. For example, teach the woodwinds so they would want to learn how to play their saxophone better or learn music theory better. But then there’s other things too.

There’s a lot that I don’t know about the students as far as their life and I try to support them as much as I can.

Dana: All of the music faculty here, [we] do our absolute best to instruct students in how to be a better guitar player, saxophone player, vocalist whatever it might be. Then there’s also that bit about music that’s about being professional, [such as] being on time and prepared for things. I know that sounds like someone’s dad talking, but it really is true. You can’t be successful if you don’t do those things. We had a student that was a percussionist here, and she would always say that her goal in life was to be a percussionist

actly what she always dreamed of doing and all of us here - not just Larry and I - but all of us helped in some way with that. It’s a pretty cool feeling.

What do you hope your last group of students here at FCC take with them by the end of the semester?

Dana: Well hopefully, none of the instruments.

Honda: [laughs] That’s a good one.

Dana: I hope that they look back at their time here and feel like as they are getting ready for, let’s say transferring to another school, I hope they look back and say, “You know, the people at Fresno City College really got me ready to do that. I’m ready to take on the next thing.” And I hope they look back and go, “Wow, I got to play in Mr. Honda’s woodwind ensemble,” and “I got to play in the jazz band,” and “I got to go on this trip and/or that festival.” Part of it is having great experiences and also being prepared for the next thing.

plan. I am at least hoping to continue what I’m doing. I substitute in the Fresno Philharmonic, but one thing I know for sure is yesterday I found out the show “The Book of Mormon” is returning to Fresno, and I played in the pit orchestra when it first came. I was asked to play again, so that’s something definite there. Mike plays at the jam session down in Tokyo Gardens and I couldn’t feel like getting out to go because I teach an 8 a.m. class on Mondays and I’ve been doing that forever.

So that would be one thing on my bucket list; I’d like to go there more often knowing that I can sleep in the next day. Those are the things I do now, but I’d like to do more because I’ll have more time to do them.

Dana: When I was a college student, I would practice two or three or four hours a day. As an instructor, I never have time to do that so my plan is to keep composing music, practice a whole lot and continue to do some international teaching. So traveling, teaching, playing and trying to find time for all the things I didn’t have time for when I was a full-time professor.

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ASIAN FEST RETURNS to fresno city college Omari Bell | Social Media Editor obell@therampageonline.com

Hundreds of locals flocked to Fresno City College for the tenth annual Asian Fest on April 28, bringing to a close Asian American History Month at the college.

“Being American, our intro to Asian culture is through Vietnamese fuh, Panda Express, and Japaneses restaurants, but you don’t know anything else about the culture until you come to Asian Fest where you see the traditional costumes, performances, and music,” Maile Martin, the event’s coordinator, said.

“Asian Fest is a culmination of Asian American Month here at Fresno City College, but it is the celebration of Asian culture and the opportunity to showcase it,” said Martin. “We have such a wonderful blend of so many ethnic diversities on the campus, and this is our way of showing their pride with the community.”

Now in its tenth year, visitors entered to entertainment, vendors, and food. FCC president Carole Goldsmith brought her father out to enjoy the Festival.

“There are a lot of arts, crafts, and Anime – one of my favorites,” Goldsmith said. “They have a great comic book selection but most importantly, they’re highlighting our students as well as the community.”

Cassie Alvarez visited with her daughter, and said she just wanted to try something new and different.

“We’re going to do the rodeo tomorrow, so we came out today for the food and entertainment,” Alvarez said.

As the attendees browsed through the vendors and food booths, music radiated from around the campus, and many groups performed throughout the day.

A car is displayed at Asian Fest on Fresno City College on Saturday, April 28, 2018. Photo/ Paulina Rodríguez

Dancers from different groups show off their skills during Asian Fest at Fresno City College on Saturday, April 28, 2018. Photo/Paulina Rodríguez

5.2.18 ENTERTAINMENT 7

therampageonline.com Courtesy of Marvel

Marvel’s 10-Year Promise Kept

By Noah Villaverde Entertainment Editor

In

2008, Marvel Studios released “Iron Man,” which gave audiences a grounded, yet thrilling origin story that ended up serving as the foundation for a groundbreaking franchise that the likes of Hollywood have never seen before.

Ten years and 18 films later, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) finally reaches its culmination with “Avengers: Infinity War.” The film brings the entire MCU together as Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and the Guardians of the Galaxy must form an alliance to stop their biggest threat yet, Thanos (Josh Brolin) from finding all six infinity stones that will grant him the power to erase half of the universe’s existence with the snap of his fingers.

Make no mistake about it. Directors Anthony and Joe Russo along with screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely have somehow achieved the impossible with “Avengers: Infinity War.” The MCU have previously established multiple heroes in their own standalone films before finally assembling them together in this epic crossover event that takes much of its inspiration from “The Infinity Gauntlet” comic. Given the audience’s pre-established connections with characters such as Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) and Captain America (Chris Evans) from the first two phases of the MCU, seeing these founding members of the Avengers pushed to their limits adds more emotional gravitas.

But the founding Avengers roster aren’t the

only heroes to join in on the action. New additions such as the Guardians of the Galaxy, Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), Spider-Man (Tom Holland) and of course, Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman) are also pushed to their limits as Thanos unleashes his existential threats to the entire universe.

“

The issue at hand when it comes to these separate subplots is how sometimes, the overall presentation can feel so epic, that one feels exhausted when watching it due to its bloated nature.

But as exciting as it is to see new character interactions from numerous heroes who have never shared the screen together before, “Avengers: Infinity War” succeeds as a fascinating character study on the MCU’s villainto-end-all-villains in Thanos. Josh Brolin is demonstrably intimidating as the Mad Titan who wields the Infinity Gauntlet, and although his authoritative threat against our heroes has such a great presence on screen, Brolin also adds a certain depth to the film’s antagonist that is sur-

prisingly sympathetic. Thanos is so prominent throughout the film, one can argue that he is the true main character of this story.

“Avengers: Infinity War” is a miracle of a modern blockbuster, but it isn’t without some minor faults. Given the nature of assembling all of these larger-than-life characters together in one epic film, it jumps from a couple of separate subplots that work to complement each other until it reaches the third act. The issue at hand when it comes to these separate subplots is how sometimes, the overall presentation can feel so epic, that one feels exhausted when watching it due to its bloated nature.

That’s not to say the film’s epic scale is a detriment to the cinematic experience. Given that most audiences seeing this film have seen most, if not all the films in the MCU, the lack of character development within these pre-established heroes is forgivable given Thanos’ unique arc.

It also helps that the film leads up to quite possibly the most incredible finale of any comic book film ever made. It’s a finale that will certainly leave audiences breathless when the film cuts to credits.

“Avengers: Infinity War” is Marvel’s decade-long promise kept. It pushes these beloved characters beyond what was expected of them and provides audiences with some of the most incredible superhero spectacle at the multiplex.

Sure it may feel bloated at points, but the sheer joy of seeing this incredible franchise come into fruition in as epic fashion as this is worth it.

Come for the spectacle, stay for Thanos.

Grade:

8 OPINION 5.2.18

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US Should Choose Peace Talks to Decrease Tension in Syria Gabbi Micheli | Reporter jmicheli@therampageonline.com

Trump ordered the military to carry out an airstrike on Syria in response to chemical attacks on civilians on April 5. Not only is Trump’s airstrike illegal, but it creates bigger issues.

Syria is suffering. Social media threads show the gruesome reality of victims of chemical attacks, dead malnourished children and bombings that have left cities like Ghouta in ruin for over eight years.

On the surface, striking Syria seems like a good idea, given the atrocities that have been committed by the Assad regime. An airstrike would send a message to the terrorist group that the U.S. is not afraid to fight back to defend the innocent Syrian men, women and children.

However, it’s important not to overlook the fact that no matter what the outcome is, innocent lives will be lost -- lives trapped in a warzone, lives trapped by circumstance and innocent of what’s to come.

Despite Trump’s decision to take his own action in “saving Syria,” the cycle of fighting

back and forth will likely continue. All burdens seem to be thrown onto Syria. It’s a constant battleground. Adding an airstrike along with the devastation and destruction already permeating the country will most likely leave these trapped civilians even more hopeless.

Additionally, Trump’s decision to strike Syria is illegal.

In addressing his decision, instead of going straight to congress for their approval, Trump went straight to the media, as usual. He bashed Russia for allegedly taking action to prevent missiles from being fired at the city, according to one of Trump’s tweets.

Although on the surface it seems that Trump is in support of Syrian citizens who have been chemically attacked, it may just be another way to fuel his ego.

By illegally sending an airstrike to Syria, this not only puts Syria in danger but the U.S. as well.

If Trump continues to set the tone by ignoring or disregarding the rule of law, who knows what will become of our nation’s credibility?

Also, violence begets violence. This airstrike will just further tensions between the US and the Middle East. If the US is declaring war illegally, what will the Assad regime, an organization that has inflicted violence on their own people for years, do?

Peace talks would be the best solution in avoiding tension and violence on both sides. It is also long overdue.

The tension between the U.S. and Syria has been evident for over eight years, with no resolution in sight. Fighting fire with fire only engulfs both nations into a situation that we may not be prepared for.

It’s time that innocent Syrians receive their justice. Violence is the last thing Syria needs, it’s a key trademark of the country. What Syrians need is hope. They need clear directions and America needs a clear plan for what they need to execute, rather than a drastic declaration of war that Trump can easily do, bypassing Congress at the drop of a hat.

In an America seemingly more divided than ever, change in handling these tensions is our best hope for a change in Syria.

Illustration/Tasha Turner

Why Eating Disorders Can Be More Psychological Than Physical Anjanae Freitas | Reporter afreitas@therampageonline.com

Imagine that you have an eating disorder. No, not like that. Like it really is. Imagine having a voice in your head that barks at you like a drill sergeant. Now imagine that no one believes you because you are not thin.

The way our culture thinks of eating disorders is trash and naive. Society has created a false image that anyone who has an eating disorder must be underweight and flesh to the bone to be struggling. The truth is, anyone can be struggling with an eating disorder no matter their size or shape.

When will we stop adding to the stigma that recovering from an eating disorder is as simple as just eating? I do not wake up daily and think “hey, I think I’ll sabotage my own body for no reason today!”

I did not wake up one day and

decide that I wanted to suffer from a deadly illness for the rest of my life. However, the voice inside my head does. The voice that can control my brain to desire, manipulate, and exert almost anything in my life in order to feel a sense of control.

Imagine this: you are getting ready to go eat dinner with your friends -- a simple, yet normal action that most people do not think twice about doing. But that is not the case for someone struggling with an eating disorder.

Suffering from an eating disorder means mentally preparing myself for every event. My body dysmorphia convinces me that not only is eating harmful, but the act of eating in front of others is particularly humiliating. And on top of these thoughts, what do I wear? What do I order? And before I know it, I’ve already convinced myself not to eat, and definitely not to go.

“I did not wake up one day and decide i wanted to suffer from a deadly illness for the rest of my life.”

Your family notices your constant dissociation and says “She doesn’t want to get better, she could eat if she wanted to.” Your friends notice you pull out of an event you have committed to months in advance and they call you flakey.

Not only have I been physically straining my body with anxious thoughts, but I am wondering how for a pessimist I am going to attempt to be optimistic for that music festival I told my friends I would go to months ago.

In reality, my friends and family might not understand that in fact these events are all that consume my every living thought. I did not forget or not care enough to go, in fact, I have thought about it so much that I really convinced myself I could handle something beyond my control.

As someone who has lost so many personal relationships in my life because of this disorder,

I know that it is not all one-sided. Not everyone is going to understand your decision for your actions.

What I can say is, if some of the people I have lost in my life had ever took the time to understand that my disorder is more psychological than physical, they might be a little more understanding to my dissociation or thoughts beyond my control.

I am not asking you to let someone’s mental illness affect your own mental health.The truth is, if you do not struggle with an eating disorder, you will never understand what I or others feel or go through. However I am asking you to simply educate yourself on eating disorders. How they don’t just harm you physically, but mentally. I believe that simple action is something we can all benefit from.

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How to Travel the World on a Budget Gabbi Micheli | Reporter jmicheli@therampageonline.com

In the short amount of time I’ve been alive, I have been able to travel to France and the United Kingdom. This summer I plan on going to San Francisco, Oregon, and New York. I’ll spend winter in the Dominican Republic and next summer I’ll spend two weeks in Indonesia.

I might sound pretentious and privileged, but trust me, I’m a struggling student.

I work and go to school full time. I pay rent and bills just like anyone else.

A plethora of life's problems can weigh students down. Traveling is one thing that can fit anyone's budget as long as you have the right mindset. Go for the experience, not the material possessions. More money will be saved and greater adventures will be accomplished.

Traveling on a budget means packing lightly, so only bring carry-on luggage. Paying to have more luggage on board only means more money, and more time wasted in baggage claim: time better spent exploring!

We travel to escape from reality - so don’t bring everything but the kitchen sink. Learn rolling techniques to ensure the best bang for your buck, fitting as much as possible into the luggage space.

It's important also to make an itinerary so you don't waste time figuring out what to do when you get there. However, be flexible.

Make sure to do research ahead of time and choose a location that best fits your budget. Traveling doesn’t require flying across the world, it can be driving to the coast, Los Angeles, a music festival, or anywhere else in the country. It's important to judge your location based on your financial ability. Be practical.

Hotels are generally inexpensive in other countries. In France, I stayed in a hotel around 60 euros per night, which translates to roughly around 70 US dollars, but there are much cheaper ones.

Whether you are traveling in or out of the country, opting to stay in a hostel or an Airbnb is also a good idea. This will allow more connection with locals and overall a more rounded experience at a cheaper price, as opposed to being in your comfort zone with higher rates per night.

If you are flying, buy plane tickets early.

The sooner you buy, the cheaper. Also, buy tickets during off-peak travel times. These times differ depending on which location you are flying to, which means it’s important to research ahead of time. Looking for a real bargain? Many airlines have Black Friday sales.

When you reach your destination, value experience over material things, so go to free events. Touristy attractions are easy and tempting, but don't be scared or shy and try new things! Most museums are free.

Try to brush up on the language and learn a few phrases. By learning the language and going to lesser-known events, it makes blending in with the locals easy and they’ll assume you’re a native too. Being mistaken for a Parisian is always a compliment.

This also applies to food. I know there’s one in almost every country, but no McDonald’s! Most restaurants have menus in English, but if there is a chance they don't, keep a handy dictionary or your phone with you. Search up reviews online too. Keep in mind allergies to certain foods, but be adventurous! Try escargot or octopus; you might not have another opportunity.

Food is crucial and most money will be spent on this, no matter what. Everyone has to eat. Try finding hidden gems, instead of restaurants or shops right near major streets. Quiet, smaller restaurants will most likely offer more native, less expensive food, whereas larger restaurants will provide a wider selection but at a higher price.

It's necessary to note that for a majority of time on your trip, walking will be required, so invest in good shoes. Most countries have cheap public transportation like buses, trains and subways. With apps on your phone, you can track how to get to a certain place via transit as well. Renting bikes is always and option, but avoid taxis unless absolutely necessary - such as going to and from the airport, since they are overpriced.

Lastly, be a traveler, not a tourist. Having that mentality will ensure a satisfying trip without the chaos of a material mindset. Tourists can get wrapped up shopping or buying gifts, but the purpose of traveling is preserving these experiences. Objects will fade, lasting memories won't. Safe travels.

OPINION 9

White House Correspondents Dinner Was A Swing And A Miss Andrew Leal | Reporter

aleal@therampageonline.com

The story dominating the news after last weekend’s White House Correspondents Dinner is whether comedian Michelle Wolf ’s performance was funny or not.

Wolf ’s disdain for President Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, along with the news media on both sides of the aisle was polarizing, and not necessarily what the White House Correspondents’ Association, the group who hosts the WHCD, wanted to promote.

Showing not even the most basic respect for the president isn’t the “robust news coverage of the president and the presidency,” the WHCA says it stands for on its about us page.

The WHCA should have done their research.

Doing some inkling of research would have led to the invitation of a well-suited comedian who could have been funny while also helping to carry on the mission of WHCD. Instead, Wolf was hired.

“Of course, Trump isn’t here if you haven’t noticed,” Wolf said, at the dinner, “He’s not here. And I know. I know. I would drag him here myself, but it turns out the president of the United States is the one p---y you are not allowed to grab.”

Wolf is a comedian and correspondent on “The Daily Show,” a satire news show hosted by Trevor Noah. Her brand of comedy is to comment unapologetically, on topical issues including the #MeToo movement, news media and Trump, which were all on display at the WHCD. “Her goal might not have been press unity and everyone rallying around the room to support journalism,” said White House Correspondents’ Association President Margaret Talev. “But, look, I invited her. And I invited her because I thought that she was a talented comedian with a message to deliver.”

Talev thought wrong, as Wolf ’s comedy was provocative in the worst way possible for what the WHCA’s stands for. Her comedy

was biting and vulgar without saying anything meaningful.

Maybe if Talev wanted to avoid inviting someone who would damage the organization’s reputation she could have done some research and watched Wolf on “The Daily Show.”

Maybe some communication between Talev and Wolf would have led to a more focused and substantive comedy routine. Wolf could have touched on important issues like the government’s passive approach to protecting the 2018 elections from continued Russian interference or how the Trump administration adding a citizenship question might jeopardize the 2020 census.

“Comedy is meant to be provocative,” Talev said. “My interest overwhelmingly was in unifying the country, and I understand that we may have fallen a little bit short on that goal.”

“

Wolf’s comedy was provocative in the worst way possible.”

Wolf did ask for help from the audience to burn the president on how broke he is through jokes like, “Trump is so broke, he has to fly failed business class,” and “Trump is so broke, Southwest used him as one of their engines.”

So it seems like Wolf can be topical but at the expense of passengers to a major airplane emergency landing.

Actually, Wolf had one important thing to say. “Flint still doesn’t have clean water,” she said, seemingly as an afterthought at the end of the night. Still, in a comedy routine dominated by talk of Sarah Huckabee Sanders eyebrows and lame “how broke is he” jokes, it’s no wonder no one’s talking about Flint.

Fresno is the Perfect Place to Live for Summer Break Stefanie Verdugo Tholen | Reporter stholen@therampageonline.com

OK, let’s face it. Fresno isn’t topping any prime vacation lists anytime soon.

So with the semester coming to an end and summer already breathing hot air down our necks, it’s time to escape for a little R&R. Although Fresno may not be a fabulous vacation city, we do have a great location in California. We are in the middle which gives us timely access to a mountainous retreat, a getaway to the beach or even a road trip to the desert for

some bright lights and gambling.

One of my favorite California hot spots is Santa Cruz. The first thing most people think of is the famous boardwalk with delicious food to indulge in while taking a break from all the fun boardwalk rides. The boardwalk is a must when visiting, but there is so much more.

The northernmost edge town of the Monterey Bay offers picturesque beaches with gentle waves for surfers of all ranges. There are 14 state parks in Santa Cruz to satisfy your hiking, camping and

exploring needs. If you are not the outdoorsy type, then you may prefer to lounge at the Dream Inn and get pampered while sipping on a piña colada poolside.

Speaking of poolside drinks, summer doesn’t feel complete without a road trip to Las Vegas.

The road trip usually takes about six hours, or a flight from Fresno to Vegas is about an hour. Either way, Vegas is a place every college student, of age, should visit to blow off some steam.

With non stop gambling, drinks flowing and nightclubs

on every corner, it is very easy to forget about college for a while.

Of course, there is more to Vegas than the sinful pleasures of the strip. Plenty of breathtaking canyon views...oh, who am I kidding?

I have never been off the strip in all of my trips to Vegas.

I have some very cherished memories of my summer vacations, but the older I get, the more I cherish the tranquil vacation spots. I now enjoy heading up to the mountains to unplug for a while.

One of my favorite spots is

Huntington Lake. It is about two hours away from Fresno and the weather is usually 20 degrees cooler than Fresno in the summer. The seven campgrounds that surround Huntington Lake are beautiful and peaceful. You may even be able to witness a regatta race, a fun and exhilarating boating race.

From San Francisco to San Diego and everything in between, California is one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. and there is much to explore, even from Fresno.

10 ENTERTAINMENT

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LitHop Celebrates Fresno Literature with Carmen Giménez Smith Gabbi Micheli | Reporter jmicheli@therampageonline.com

The Tower District and Fresno City College hosted the third annual LitHop festival on April 21, celebrating literary arts throughout the Fresno community. There were over 150 readers and 40 events that took place from 1 p.m to 7 p.m.

The keynote speaker event kicked off with LitHop founder and FCC instructor Lee Herrick thanking the Fresno community for making his idea become a reality. His vision for LitHop began 10 years ago, he said, but wasn’t finalized into an event until 2016.

Herrick didn’t hesitate to address the elephant in the room —that Fresno State professor Randa Jarrar chose to step down on headlining the event. After her controversial tweets on April 17, where she called Barbara Bush an “amazing racist,” Jarrar chose to withdraw from LitHop. A public statement posted on LitHop’s website addressed the controversy with Jarrar, stating, “We do not support violence on social media or elsewhere; rather, we value civil discourse and look forward to the necessary healing ahead.”

“I support Randa Jarrar’s free speech and I also denounce any violence against her…” Herrick said.

Herrick then brought out Nikiko Masumoto, an agrarian farmer and community volunteer for the Central Valley. She addressed the importance of art and funding arts in Fresno.

Masumoto further explained that the ballot to fund parks and arts would add three-eighths of a cent to Fresno’s sales tax, which would go to fixing and building parks and trails. Twelve percent

of the money would assist the arts for 30 years.

She urged the audience to think about the first time they experienced art, and how those experiences would shape the next generation if the ballot is passed.

“I know Fresno believes in the arts. I know we are artists. And I know we believe in the possibilities that art can bring us.” Masumoto said.

LitHop director and FCC instructor Juan Luis Guzmán, introduced his friend and keynote speaker Carmen Giménez Smith.

A professor at Virginia Tech, Smith is also an American Book Award Winner, Juniper Prize winner, and poetry co-editor for “The Nation.”

Smith also voiced her opinion on the Jarrar controversy. She read from a passage that included the line, “The writer is dangerous because she critiques with teeth.”

“I’d like to dedicate this reading to Randa Jarrar and to other artists who are silenced for testing the limits of their liberty,” Smith said.

Smith read poems of hers and others for 30 minutes, recounting experiences dealing with people of color, the Americas, politics, revolution, sexuality, culture, and past, present, and future, all with vivid detail and unapologetic language.

Herrick summarized the goal of LitHop and what it hopes to contribute to the Central Valley.

“LitHop is not perfect, we know there is some hiccups,” Herrick said, “but if we do it again we will continue to try to bring people together through words, language, and some of the things that need to be said, and keep the discussions going.”

Keynote speaker Carmen Giménez Smith reads pieces from her new book during LitHop at Fresno City College on Saturday, April 21, 2018 Photo/Larry Valenzuela

Four writers recite their pieces for LitHop at a pool hall called Detention in the Tower District on Saturday, April 21, 2018.

Photo/Larry Valenzuela

Four writers recite their pieces for LitHop at a pool hall called Detention in the Tower District on Saturday, April 21, 2018.

Photo/Larry Valenzuela

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SPORTS 11

Head Coach Ron Scott Honored for 1,000 Wins Omari Bell | Social Media Editor obell@therampageonline.com

Baseball Head Coach Ron Scott was honored after his 1,000th win. Photo/Larry Valenzuela

Ram Athletes Honored at Torch Awards Anthony De Leon | Sports Editor adeleon@therampageonline.com

The 22nd Annual Torch of Excellence Banquet honoring the scholar athletes from Fresno City College, Reedley College and Clovis Community College was held April 30 at the Clovis Veterans Memorial Hall. The event was sponsored by the Kiwanis Clubs of Fresno and Madera Counties and Educational Employees Credit Union.

Fresno City College athletics showed that they also dominant in the classroom as much as they do on the field with the number of Torch awards recipients this year.

Two-hundred student-athletes across all sports received awards at the ceremony, including 101 Torchlighter awards awarded to athletes with one semester of 3.5 grade point average or higher and 99 Scholar Athletes who achieved a 3.0 to 3.9 grade point average.

The night’s emcee was University of California Los Angeles athletic department mainstay and Reedley College Athletics Hall of Famer Ed Kezirian, who presented each college a $1,000 check on behalf of the sponsors of the event. Representing FCC in the presentation of scholar athlete awards was Interim Athletic Director Cam Olsen.

Danielle Pacheco of the FCC women’s soccer team was the recipient of the Female Scholar Athlete of the Year and Tyler Wood of the FCC football team was recipient of the Male Scholar Athlete of the Year. Danielle Pacheco was voted as the National Player of the Year this past season for Division III women’s soccer. Tyler Wood was named to the All-California Community College Football Coaches Association’s 2017 Academic All-State football team with a GPA of 3.64.

Thirty minutes before the game began on April 26 against No. 6 Cerro Coso Community College, Baseball Head Coach Ron Scott was honored by Fresno City College for accomplishing the milestone of winning 1,000 games.

Two and a half hours, and 9 innings later, Scott added one more win as the Rams beat the Coyotes (9-2), making it 1,002.

The event honoring Scott in front of the entire FCC athletics community was an exciting affirmation of Scott’s character and contributions to not only the baseball program, but to the college. FCC President Carole Goldsmith, commentator Woody Wilk, and assistant baseball coach Eric Solberg all spoke during the 30-minute event.

It started with Goldsmith heaping gratitude for having Scott as

a part of the staff at Fresno City College.

“You all are witnessing more than Fresno City College history – this is Central Valley history and state history,” Goldsmith said.

“He has taken young men and turned them into great men, and I want that to be one of the key acknowledgements of his success as well.”

Scott’s accomplishment generated a particular buzz on campus and in the Valley throughout social media after the historic Rams win on April 24. They defeated the Coyotes (5-2).

“We’re here to play a game tonight, but I just wanted to thank everybody,” Scott said. “There is a saying that ‘time flies when you’re having fun’ and I’m trying not to get emotional, but it’s unbelievable how fast 30 years have gone.”

Once the game began, very few seats were empty.

The Rams capped off the end of

FCC to Add Beach Volleyball Next Spring Andrew Leal | Reporter aleal@therampageonline.com

Adding beach volleyball as a sport at Fresno City College was a process five years in the making, according to FCC Head Volleyball Coach Kieran Roblee. With help from FCC President Carole Goldsmith, the fun will begin in Spring 2019.

“A tip of the hat to our former [volleyball] coach Tracy Ainger-Schulte,” said Roblee, “she got the ball rolling.”

Along with the new sport, comes opportunities for student athletes, according to Roblee.

Roblee said a benefit to having a beach volleyball team in the spring is that students who play indoor volleyball in the fall will be able to cross train. Also, the new program possibly opens up athletes more opportunities to play at a four year school.

Other potential options include, “financial aid not only through our indoor program but also through the beach program,” said Roblee, “and then possibly dual sport athletes with that.”

At the moment, only 10 junior colleges in northern California have a beach volleyball program, with most located south, according to Roblee.

“The sport is continuingly growing in

“

Our athletes are going to be able to compete at a much higher level.

Athletes, coaches and administrators from the State Center Community College District gather at the Clovis Veterans Memorial Hall for the annual Torch Awards on Monday, April 30, 2018 Photo/Larry Valenzuela

the regular season on April 30 as they defeated the Coyotes for the 3 game series sweep (9-3).

The Rams (28-12, 17-4 Central Valley) are currently on a nine game winning streak scoring a combined 73 runs in that span.

FCC had very little trouble with the Coyotes in this series, with each game ending in convincing fashion.

The Rams were crowned the CVC Champions before their matchup on April 26 had even started as No. 3 College of the Sequoias lost to No. 5 Taft (13-3).

Their first playoff game will held on May 4 against No. 5 Folsom Lake from the Big 8 conference.

“We got 1,002 and it feels good to be champs,” freshman infielder Ian Ross said. “Being a CVC champ is a great feeling but we just gotta focus on the state championship now, and I’m confident that we will make a good run.”

-Kieran Roblee Head Volleyball Coach

the California Community College Athletic Association,” said Roblee.

“And now our athletes are going to be able to compete at a much higher level because we’re training in both seasons,” said Roblee.

Roblee said the difference between indoor and beach volleyball is that six players are active at one time in indoor volleyball, whereas beach volleyball plays seven teams in pairs.

As for finding a permanent location on campus for training and playing -- that’s still under review, according to Roblee.

“Right now I like to say we’re just going to be a bunch of travelling vagabonds going where we can,” said Roblee, “we’re probably going to be practicing at a couple sites off campus right now.”

Roblee said those sites include Triumph Volleyball Club which has six beach volleyball courts at its facility in Madera.

“We won’t be hosting a whole lot of home matches because there’s so few teams and usually when you host it’s three teams that play on a date,” said Roblee. “So we won’t host no more than two, maybe three.”

As for funds to maintain the new program, it will come from the FCC athletic department, according to Roblee.

Roblee said indoor volleyball athletes are helping to get beach volleyball started because players are enthusiastic to play in both sports.

Indoor volleyball players like Abbey Briggs, a first year business major, are spreading the word about beach volleyball coming to FCC. “Well I grew up around beach volleyball, so I’ve loved it ever since I was little,” said Briggs, “and now I’m super excited that City is getting a beach program.”

12 SPORTS 5.2.18

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