Fall 2016 Issue 1

RAMPAGE Student-run newspaper of Fresno City College

www.therampageonline.com

August 31, 2016 Fall 2016, Issue 1

President Goldsmith Pledges to Listen to All

I want [students] to know that Dr. Goldsmith was a good listener.”

- Carole S. Goldsmith Fresno City College President

Newly elected Fresno City College President Carole S. Goldsmith plans to hold 60-day period of listening to get acquainted with the campus to understand what needs to be improved and how to preserve the strengths.

Photo/Ram Reyes

BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ-DELGADO Editor in Chief crodriguezdelgado@therampageonline.com

H

eralded as a “strong” and “competent” leader by Richard Caglia, president of the State Center Community College Board of Trustees, Carole S. Goldsmith assumed the presidency of Fresno City College on Aug. 1.

The announcement of a new leader came on July 5, around one month after Cynthia Azari, former interim president left to lead Oxnard College. “[Being president of FCC] was something in my heart I always kind of wanted to do,” Goldsmith said. “I’m just really happy that I had the opportunity to be here now.”

Goldsmith’s entrance gives the largest college in the State Center Community College District a chance at a new beginning and possibly new direction.

In the meantime, Goldsmith is content to leave things the way they are.

“I’m not wanting to come in and change things,” Goldsmith

The Rampage

said. “I want to focus on what’s working [and] do more of that.”

Goldsmith has planned a 60day period of pure listening so she can get acquainted with the FCC campus, learn the different workings of the institution and understand what may not be

The reason I am here is for students.”

- Carole S. Goldsmith Fresno City College President working at the college.

“Whatever is not working,” she said, “let’s find out what are the barriers to making that improve.”

The former president of West Hills College in Coalinga has always had a special interest in FCC, she said.

“I’ve been watching [FCC] probably for 20 to 30 years,” she said.

FCCRampage

RampageNews

“I’ve just always been impressed by the level of academic opportunities.”

She has had a home in the Fresno City College neighborhood most of her adult life which gave her a unique view of the college and its future possibilities.

Goldsmith spent three and a half years as president of the Coalinga campus of the West Hills Community College District; previously, she spent four years in a vice chancellor position and as director of strategic planning.

Now at FCC, she says it is the “gateway to opportunity” for the thousands of students in Fresno and surrounding communities, she said.

Even though being part of FCC was something she always wanted to do, Goldsmith said at first, she wasn’t sure she wanted to pursue that goal yet. She had a comfortable position in Coalinga and knew things “inside and out.”

SEE GOLDSMITH, PAGE 3

INDEX: NEWS 2

A&E 6

Students Help Recover Stolen Bike

BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ-DELGADO & PAYTON HARTUNG Rampage Staff editorial@therampageonline.com

Two Fresno City College students are being hailed as heroes after helping nab a man suspected of stealing a bicycle from campus on Friday.

Around 9:45 a.m., State Center Community College District Police Sgt. Pat Jackson said an FCC student identified as Christopher Lander was walking between the Math and Science Building and the college theater when he noticed a man sitting at a bench near the bike racks.

Jackson said the student noticed the man with a bicycle on his lap and what looked like a bolt cutter wrapped in a rag.

SEE BIKES, PAGE 5

OPINION 8

SPORTS 10

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RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

‘Pokémon Go’ class scheduled for mid-semester

NEWS

New Students Savor Freedoms and Challenges of College

BY ASHLEIGH PANOO

Managing/News Editor apanoo@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College is offering a Pokémon Go fitness and health class beginning mid-semester.

A flyer posted on campus explains the P.E. course will “promote fitness through walking and finding [Pokémon]” on campus. Students will be required to provide their own devices with the app and are responsible for data charges, according to the flyer.

The one-unit course begins Oct. 17 and goes through Dec 8. Head women’s soccer coach Oliver Germond is listed as the instructor for the class.

The course is listed as PE-625718 and will take place Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 10:25 a.m in PG 100.

ONLINE See the new trailer for the “Rings” movie.

Read the review for Frank Ocean’s new album.

Watch our latest Rampage News Minute.

Students walk near the main fountain during the first day of school on Aug. 16, 2016. Photo/Ram Reyes

BY PAYTON HARTUNG

Reporter phartung@therampageonline.com

First-time students on the Fresno City College campus say that despite the more rigorous academic load, they are relishing the new freedom that college brings as well as the increased opportunity to expand their knowledge.

Jonathan Sanchez, a business administration major, is one of many new students at FCC. Sanchez graduated from Fresno High School last spring and said he is finding the college experience liberating. “[It] gives us the chance for us to

Editor in Chief Cresencio Rodriguez Delgado Managing/News Editor Ashleigh Panoo Entertainment Editor Jasmine Yoro Bowles Sports Editor Michael Ford Copy/Opinion Editor Edward Smith Photo Editor Ram Reyes Broadcast Editor Larry Valenzuela Layout Editor Lukas Newcomb

Rampage Adviser/Instructor Dympna Ugwu-Oju dympna.ugwu-oju@fresnocitycollege.edu

and also learn new skills to help you in your future,” Sanchez said.

But there are some things Sanchez will have to get used to, he admitted.

“The hardest part is the transition,” he said, explaining that in high school, the teachers were more flexible whereas in college, he noticed students learn to do things on their own.

Alfred Lorenzo, a Bullard High School graduate and first year student says he is enjoying sleeping in due to more relaxed schedules.

His biggest challenge: “having to do financial aid,” he said.

Free legal services for undocumented students

BY ASHLEIGH PANOO

Managing/News Editor apanoo@therampageonline.com

The Insure America Project, along with San Joaquin College of Law New American Legal Clinic is offer-

RAMPAGE Staff Editorial Board

maintain and have management of our own time,” Sanchez said of the process for creating your own class schedule.

Sanchez is juggling four classes but is most fascinated by his Computer Information Technology class.

He said the class focuses on running Microsoft software on Macbook computers and resolving compatibility issues.

“I like that they are introducing us to that new concept,” Sanchez said. “I never thought they would be having us do that type of stuff.”

Sanchez said he views FCC as a place of opportunity.

“You’re able to expand your skills

Reporters Michael Mendez Destinee Lopez Jorge Alamo Jonathan Garza Payton Hartung Thomas Hawkins Aly Honore Cedric Hood Savanna Manzo Jose Orozco Gregory Williams Eric Zamora

Jose Orozco Jonathan Garza Sage Arthur-Flores

Contact Us: Tip Line: 559.442.8262 Letters to the Editor to: editorial@therampageonline.com

ing free legal services to undocumented students attending Fresno City College who may qualify for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.

Students who qualify for the immigration policy can receive a work permit, relief from deportation and possible health coverage.

The services will cover mailing and the processing fees, as well as assistance in preparing the documents and forms needed.

For more information, contact Jeanette Ishii at 559-573-8053 or at jeanette@insureamericaproject.org.

Workshops planned to help students choose majors

BY SAGE ARTHUR-FLORES Reporter sflores@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College is offering students free workshops to help students choose a major. To sign up, students should visit the Career and Employment Center located in LI-147.

The workshops will take place in LI-147 and are scheduled for:

Sept. 9 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Sept. 14 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Sept. 27 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Oct. 10 from 11 to noon Oct. 27 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Nov. 11 from 9 to 10 a.m.

Nov. 29 from 3 to 4 p.m.

For more information, contact 559-442-8294 or email lily. hernandez@fresnocitycollege.edu.

Corrections? Email 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 individiual writer and not of the newspaper. The Rampage is produced by students of the Journalism 11 A, B, C, D class.

RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

NEWS

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GOLDSMITH FROM PAGE 1

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ut having family in Fresno as well as a willingness to challenge herself, Goldsmith finally was convinced to apply after several colleagues suggested she would be a great fit at FCC. “I thought, ‘why not...I’m up for the challenge’,” she said.

Goldsmith’s son, Chad Dobbs, formerly in the U.S. Army recently moved back from Georgia; Her daughter, Chelsea Dobbs, lives in San Luis Obispo; her grandson, Nathan, also lives in Fresno. Goldsmith said being close to family compelled her decision to seek the position of the FCC presidency. She said most of her downtime is spent with close family at home or outside the home -- she recently attended a concert for her favorite band, Coldplay, she said.

Her parents live nearly an hour away in Visalia, something Goldsmith says also makes her feel confident about the Fresno move. Despite living in other places earlier, Goldsmith’s life in the Valley has shaped her perspectives about the communities and the need to continue

Goldsmith gives college a new beginning

Fresno City College President Carole S. Goldsmith speaks to Rampage Editor in Chief Cresencio Rodriguez-Delgado at the Old Administration Building on Aug. 17, 2016. Photos/Ram Reyes

PARKING $25 faculty parking pass for the RIGHTS Student, semester, .50 cents for holder Source: SCCCD Police

Vehicle parking permits must be visible at all times, according to SCCCD Police regulations.

$1

Daily parking permit at any parking lot

$40 Citation for parking violations

$250 Citation for parking on a handicap spot

improving opportunities and lives.

“I’ve had the opportunity to travel a lot of places,” she said. “I think Fresno is pretty neat.”

She stressed the importance of helping community members work and go to school. That, she said, improves the community, a different view to a region often looked at negatively.

At her former job as president of West Hills, Goldsmith said she always maintained a close, respectful relationship with the students.

This is something she hopes she can continue at FCC. “The reason I’m here is for students,” Goldsmith said.

To stay connected with students, Goldsmith attends academic and athletic events involving students. She talked about her experience at West Hills where she helped students start clubs on campus by pairing them up with interested faculty.

Goldsmith said she is motivated by former college president Tony Cantu whom she knew from their time together at Fresno Unified School District. Cantu, she said, always kept students at the forefront and worked very hard to impact

their lives. Cantu died on April 5, 2015.

“I’ve always thought him to be well-respected and well-liked among his peers,” she said. “[He] understood that the heart of FCC is in the student.”

As Cantu’s successor, Goldsmith said she hopes “to continue in that legacy.”

Watch Goldsmith’s interview at www.therampageonline.com

In her 25-year educational career, Goldsmith was at one point the vice-principal at Cesar Chavez Adult School, responsible for career and technical education. Goldsmith wants to be there for students and be a good listener to their concerns. She says that FCC, the largest college in the area, is pivotal and serves as an “economic engine” for the city.

Goldsmith said, “That strength comes from our students.”

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RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

Photo/Larry Valenzuela

End is Near for Blackboard as College Eases in Canvas

BY EDWARD SMITH

Copy/Opinion Editor esmith@therampageonline.com

With the ensuing arrival of the Canvas learning management system, Fall 2016 will be the last semester for Blackboard on the Fresno City College campus. By spring of next year, the program will be in full swing, according to

Harry Zahlis, the Interim Director of Technology.

“The state went out to try and get everybody on one [program],” Zahlis said. “[They] offered money to pay to switch over and so from a cost perspective, that was one of the big reasons which caused us to go from Blackboard to Canvas.”

CIT Professor Rio Waller assisted in training teachers to get them

ready for the switch. “In terms of training faculty it does cost some money,” she said. “But, the cost comparison of what it takes to run the blackboard site versus the canvas site is much less.”

There are advantages beyond cost as well. “Students can do virtually everything. You can look at it natively or download the app,” Waller said. “Its an easy translation from a desktop to mobile device.”

Blackboard’s limitations were largely due to its legacy programming, according to Waller. “Rather than redoing it [programming] from scratch they just kept layering it on top,” she explained. These factors often explain recurring slowness and management issues with the program.

Canvas, however, is built on current web technology. It runs on HTML 5 and for many students, it is more mobile-ready. “Due to its legacy limitations,” said Waller, “making Blackboard work on a mobile environment was a challenge. It just did not look like what students were used to in the interface.”

According to Waller, though, Canvas is capable of doing everything Blackboard can, except faster. “[Canvas] conducted a lot of data analysis of how students use the site. They’re constantly trying to see if they are doing a good job.”

Students are already noticing some of the benefits of the new site.

NEWS “It [Canvas] is easier to navigate, everything is right there,” said Kellie Flippin, a fifth semester English major.

She also liked some of the more subtle features. “You can email your teachers straight from canvas.”

For students like Flippin, many classes are already using the new program. Out of five of her classes, four of her teachers are using it.

“There was some training that happened to get people to move over and it was kind of a ‘yes, this is coming, so you better start learning,’” Zahlis said about the transition to Canvas.

Training was offered throughout the summer for learning the new program for faculty.

Many people were anticipating this semester to be the official date for the launch of the program, but, according to Waller, they made the deadline Spring 2017 “to allow one more semester to allow faculty to get up to speed.”

“There was a decision that was made that said here is the hard deadline,” Waller said. “Without one, students and faculty would just wait.”

For Waller, though, the decision was easy. “How often do you get to make a choice for something that works better and costs less.”

Cresencio Rodriguez-Delgado contributed to this story.

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Projects at FCC since May

$550 million Available yearly for eligible projects through Proposition 39

A fence blocks access to the Language Arts Building as construction continues at Fresno City College. Photo/Ram Reyes

Prop 39, Measure C Fund Campus Facelift

BY JOSE OROZCO

Reporter jorozco@therampageonline.com

If you’ve been on the Fresno City College campus lately, you have probably noticed ditches, cordoned off areas and signs warning about the construction going on.

The college is undergoing a makeover and is being renovated from the ground up, including replacement of pipes and roofs of some buildings.

Christine D. Miktarian, associate vice chancellor of Business and Operations at the State Center Community College District, provided details about the ongoing work in a recent interview.

Miktarian said that the facelift includes a new seating area in the Language Arts [building] area and replacement of underground hot water pipes in the Math and Science building.

“We are expanding Parking Lot E [by] adding 65 spaces; we are re-

placing the roof at the theatre, ArtHome-Eco and Music Speech [buildings],” she said. “We replaced doors at the Old Administration building for sound improvements, [and] we have done parking lot pavement improvements.”

The renovations result from the California Clean Energy Jobs Act, also known as Proposition 39, which according to its website, “changed the corporate income tax code and allocates projected revenue to California’s general fund and the Clean Energy Job Creation Fund for five fiscal years, beginning with fiscal year 2013-14.”

The website also states that up to $550 million is available yearly for eligible projects improving energy efficiency and expanding clean energy generation in schools. Miktarian also said a few upgrades have been made in the sports department,“replaced the softball fence, relocated and improved the hammer throw.”

Fresno City College students have benefitted from the City of Fresno’s plans to improve the bus stops on

Blackstone and the downtown area.

The bus stops on Blackstone and Weldon have being expanded and upgraded with brighter L.E.D lights as well as bigger seats and sidewalks.

Patrick Quintero, labor worker on the bus stop project on Blackstone and Weldon, said that the project started about three months ago and will be done in about a month.

“Bigger sidewalks and bright L.E.D lights should make it safer for the students who have evening classes.”

All together, there is a total of 10 projects going on, most of which were started at the end of May, according to Shannon Robertson, the Construction Service manager at the State Center Community College District.

Miktarian said that when all the construction is completed, “We will have improved seating; you’ll have better lighting in the classrooms, more energy efficient, some safety improvements, [and] some ADA improvements,” Robertson added that FCC will also be saving water as

a result of the restorations.

Miktarian explained that the construction is important to students because, “it provides safer facilities, better learning environments, and energy efficiency.”

Many students agree. Marissa Sandoval, 24, an English major, said she was happy about the improvements and hopes parking lots are less crowded after the construction of the 65 new parking stalls. “I just want to get to class on time without having to arrive an hour early,” Sandoval said.

According to Miktarian, the construction is being paid for by several different entities -- “a combination of district, campus, and some foundation funding, and prop 39 through the state of California.”

In addition to prop 39, Measure C which was approved by voters in the June elections, will allocate $485 million for renovations and improvements at FCC and other SCCCD locations. Measure C will fund the following: a new Math and Science building, additional parking, improved technology. It will pay for modernizing and repairing existing facilities as well as a new West Fresno Educational facility.

Construction on the FCC campus will continue through the semester, and with the Measure C funding, continue through the academic year.

RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

NEWS

BIKES

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FROM PAGE 1

Police chief says bike theft is preventable

A

s Lander continued walking, he slowly turned around noticed the man was cutting the cable off a parked bicycle at the bike rack, Jackson said.

Jackson said Lander yelled at the suspect, but he began getting away in the bike he appeared to have stolen. Lander reportedly jumped on the bike that previously sat on the man’s lap and a chase ensued.

Another student, identified by Sgt. Jackson as Brandon Aguilar, noticed the chase and jumped in to offer his assistance, phoning Fresno police. A few block southeast of campus, the suspect was caught and the bikes were taken away.

The owner of the stolen bike was student Mario Martinez, Jackson said.

“It’s not very often you have a good citizen,” Jackson said.

Bicycle theft is a common occurrence on the FCC campus, and in 2015 alone, 39 bikes were stolen.

The new chief of police for the district said bike owners can help in the fight to limit bike theft on campus.

The right thing to do is always right.”

- Pat Jackson SCCCD Police Sergeant The best tactic, Dave Paris said, is to take some preventive measures before any theft happens. He said the likelihood of a recovery of a bicycle after it has been stolen is “extremely low percentage.”

Bike theft can happen to anyone, Paris said, and bike riders should take all measures to decrease the chance of getting their bicycle stolen.

SCCCD Police took several measures to prevent theft on the first day of school.

“We sent an officer out there in the central part of the plaza and made folks aware that if you’re riding a bike, come register it with us, so we have a record of the serial number, and a photograph of it.”

His office posted fliers on most bike racks. The flier encourages the college community to make the police department, located east of campus, aware that a bike is used as a form of commute. Students can call 559-225-5911 to get more information on how to register bikes.

According to SCCCD police, the best way to secure a bike is to register it and use a U-Lock.

“They are difficult because it’s got a barrel key to it; it’s a little harder to get into,” Paris explained. Potential bike thieves are not able to cut the U-Lock with a bolt cutter unlike most . bicycle cable locks.”

A flier from the State Center Community College District Police Department is taped to a bike rack near the library building at Fresno City College on Aug. 29, 2016. Students can register their bikes with police. Photo/Ram Reyes

Reports show increased theft on campus since start of fall semester

BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ-DELGADO Editor in Chief crodriguezdelgado@therampageonline.com

A string of burglaries or attempted break-ins were discovered on the campus last week forcing Fresno City College administrators to push for an increase in security measures.

The latest incident involving burglary was reported Monday where State Center Community College District Police took a report of a shoplifter at the campus bookstore.

One person was arrested Aug. 26 for possession of stolen property and was booked into the Fresno County Jail, according to police reports.

Fine, Performing and Communication Arts division Dean Neil Vanderpool said in an email to division faculty on Aug. 25 that around $5,000 in equipment has been lost, adding in another couple thousand for damages to campus buildings.

Vanderpool said he believes the theft occurred during the weekend, Aug. 20, but no reports were taken those days by SCCCD police, according to their daily call log. The biggest loss, he said, was done in the college’s Music Speech building’s recording studio. An attempted break-in was discovered in the college theater’s lighting booth and damage and theft were reported in the Old Administration Building auditorium and OAB 251, Vanderpool said.

New Interim Police Chief Shares Hiring Goals for Semester

BY ASHLEIGH PANOO

Managing/News Editor apanoo@therampageonline.com

He may only be staying for one semester, but State Center Community College District Interim Police Chief Dave Paris hopes the changes he makes, including finding his successor and hiring eight more officers, will have a long-term effect on the Fresno City College campus.

The district announced in an email to faculty and staff in June that Paris would be taking over for Lt. Richard Gaines, who held the position since former Chief Bruce Hartman stepped down from the position in the fall of 2015, citing medical reasons.

Paris is a retired California Highway Patrol captain, with a combined 38 years of experience between the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and CHP. Although he’s been retired nearly

A police department report for Aug. 22 noted four theft or burglary incidents on campus; a “grand theft” report was taken for the Music Speech building’s room 131 and a similar report was taken for the Math and Science Building the same day. The following day, Aug. 23, another burglary report was taken from room 131, according to SCCCD police. A police report on Wednesday showed more theft had occurred in the OAB auditorium.

Smaller cases of theft have sprung across the campus and parking lots, where four cases of vehicle burglary were reported Aug. 18, according to police reports.

Reports of burglary started diminishing as the college entered its third week of classes.

ing, making hiring 8 more officers among his primary goals.

Although Paris couldn’t give a reason for the dwindling staff, SCCCD chancellor Paul Parnell said some officers resigned, but were looking to get rehired.

“We’re in a serious recruitment phase of trying to get police officers in here -- get them hired and get them trained so we can have a full contingency,” Paris said.

two years, Paris said he was working part-time issuing concealed weapons permits at the sheriff’s office when he got the call for the job as interim chief.

“The vice-chancellor reached out to the sheriff and asked for some assistance and she brought up my name,” he said. “They called me in, we talked, and the next thing, I’m the chief!”

Paris acknowledged the district has had trouble finding a permanent chief since Hartman stepped down, and he’s been tasked with the job of filling that position.

Paris said the ideal candidate has management level law enforcement experience. “I’ve reached out locally to different department heads to see if they have anybody that might have an interest after they retire [and] that might want to come here and work a little bit longer,” he said.

Paris also revealed that over 50 percent of staff left prior to his hir- SCCCD Interim Chief of Police Dave Paris Photo/ Ashleigh Panoo

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RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

ENTERTAINMENT

Zapotec Native Teaches Art of Yarn Dyeing

BY ERIC ZAMORA

A

Reporter ezamora@therampageonline.com

n artist whose work is currently featured in the Art Space Gallery exhibit -- “Inter-Woven: The Fabrics of Art, Life and Traditions Across Continents” -- brought his work closer to students on Aug. 26 with a master class on the history and process of traditional thread dyeing and weaving.

Porfirio Gutiérrez, a Zapotec artist, demonstrated to approximately one dozen students the natural elements used to create different dyes. One of those elements, the cochineal insect, is dried and crushed to create a deep red while dried tarragon is used to create a vibrant, sunny yellow.

Gutierrez explained how many of the dyes, like the tarragon dye, are created by simply boiling the element in water, similar to the way tea is made. Some dyes, however, like the indigo dye, require a multitude of steps in order to ensure the right color is created.

I think it’s very important that [students] know that there are still things being made with natural life, which you don’t see anymore.”

- Porfirio Gutierrez Master Weaver The artist also demonstrated the cultural significance of his art.

This style of dyeing and weaving originates from Gutiérrez’s community in Teotitlán del Valle. This southern Mexican city in the state of Oaxaca is home to the Zapotec people who still create this traditional art. However, very few people use natural dyes like Gutiérrez and his family.

Gutiérrez said he hopes that his original textile works will create an interest in the art of the Zapotec people who have used these methods for many generations.

“I have spent the last 10, maybe 13, years finding my vision and showing people and teaching people and sharing about the true history of how these things are done and to honor the knowledge [passed down],” Gutiérrez said.

Gutiérrez’ textiles are just some of many items featured in the current exhibition at the Art Space Gallery. The works on display demonstrate the product of techniques used in Gutiérrez’s master class.

Photos/Ram Reyes

Watch Gutierrez demonstrate yarn dyeing at www. therampageonline.com

Top: Porfirio Guitierrez explaining his natural dye process for his yarn used for his weavings in T-101 at Fresno City College on Aug. 25, 2016. Middle: Guitierrez rinsing out the yarn that had been dyed. Bottom: Porfirio Guitierrez shows off the freshly dyed yarn using his natural dye technique

ENTERTAINMENT

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RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

Students Audition for Parts in Fall Plays

BY ALY HONORE

Reporter ahonore@therampageonline.com

Fresno City College students tried out for parts in the theatre department fall productions -- “Waiting for Lefty,” an American classic and “Farragut North,” an award-winning, off-Broadway production.

“Waiting for Lefty,” directed by Janine Christl and stage manager, Kaderina Guizer, is set in 1935 about the struggles of cab drivers during the Great Depression as they protest their unfair wages. This production will have a big cast with over 20 roles available.

“Farragut North” will be a smaller production and directed by Chuck Erven, an award winning playwright.

With only eight major characters to enact the intense and unadulterated play about Stephen Bellamy, a successful press secretary who makes a fatal mistake during a presidential primary, sending his career spiraling downwards because of harsh and unforgiving politics.

“This play requires a real, honest performance,” Erven said. “You have to be open, accessible, and show an instinctive need to connect with somebody else on the stage.”

Chelsea Hatler, a veteran stage manager, said she is “excited to see people develop their inner actor,” since “Farragut North” will take place on a much smaller stage. “Most people who act, do it on a big stage and they’re very big and bold, and this is a different kind of experience,” Hatler also said.

David Garcia performs monologue in the college theater as “Farragut North” director Chuck Erven looks on, Aug. 20, 2016. Photo/Ram Reyes Auditions for both productions required a minute-long contemporary monologue and an additional 30-second song piece if auditioning for “Waiting for Lefty.” Several students will likely be participating in both productions.

Both of these plays, having to do with either politics or socio-economic issues, are coming to FCC at a time that is very relevant to these topics, with so much pending friction following the upcoming election.

Andrew Garcia, a student who auditioned for “Farragut North,” said his interest in participating is related to the upsurge of Americans interested in politics. Garcia said he believes people

are starting, “to pay more attention and be more aware,” of political issues. The same goes for “Waiting for Lefty,” which displays the vast wealth gap that plagued the Great Depression.

All students interested in theatre are encouraged to audition for future productions, and although major roles may be limited, there is always opportunity for ensemble roles. Stage manager, Kaderina Guizer said, “About 65 percent of auditioners usually get callbacks.”

“Waiting for Lefty” will be first to hit the stage on Sept. 30, through Oct. 8. “Farragut North” will debut on Nov. 11 through Nov. 19.

Art Exhibit Brings Far-Apart Worlds Closer

BY ERIC ZAMORA

Reporter ezamora@therampageonline.com

In the midst of the chaotic start of school, Fresno City College students are invited to indulge in treasures from around the world currently on display in the Art Space Gallery.

Until Sept. 16, the gallery is exhibiting “Inter-Woven: The Fabrics of Art, Life and Traditions Across Continents”.

The exhibition features a variety of woven textiles from different countries, with passages

Photo/Eric Zamora explaining the process, usage, and inspiration behind the works.

Inter-Woven is separated by continents, with each section displaying the textile works from Africa, Asia, Central America, North America and South America. The works include leather boots from the 1970s, a cotton textile inspired by the Disney character Donald Duck Jr. and a women’s clothing wrap featuring metallic threads.

Each country is connected through their similar patterns and motifs in their textiles. Alongside the shared use of patterns, the colors used also

emphasize the connection between the works in the exhibit.

Teresa Díaz, curator of the Art Space Gallery, said she anticipates that visitors flock to to the display to learn from the stories being told by the exhibition.

She hopes patrons realize that “all of the techniques and motifs from textiles from around the world are somehow cross-culturally interwoven.”

For example, a Zapotec weaver from Mexico uses almost the same motifs used in Central Asian textiles, without the weaver ever having studied art from Central Asia. The meanings behind the motifs from both countries are similar as well.

Porfirio Gutiérrez is one of the many artists featured in the art gallery. He is the Zapotec weaver whose textiles preserve his community’s traditional art of weaving.

“I think it’s very important that [students] know that there are still things being made with natural life, which you don’t see anymore,” says Gutiérrez.

Another artist featured is Kathy Wosika, a local artist and retired FCC art instructor who is popular in the craft arts scene locally, according to Díaz. Her displayed work combines handmade paper, plastic, and natural ink in a weaving technique like Gutiérrez’s.

“I knew that she [Wosika] had an incredible collection of textiles from around the world,” Díaz explained why her works were included in the exhibit.

During ArtHop on Sept. 1, Díaz will give a tour of the exhibition in a reception at the gallery.

Featured artists or experts often give lectures based on the exhibitions.

The next Art Space Gallery exhibition will open on Sept. 26. and will feature Mexican artists Francisco Onate and Angel Santos.

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RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

OPINION

First Impressions, First Fears

BY SAGE ARTHUR-FLORES Reporter sflores@therampageonline.com

The heat was the first thing my mind focused on when I stepped onto the campus for the first time, a week before the fall semester started. As I walked around the almost empty campus searching for the guidance counselor’s office, I found myself wondering why, in a place that gets so heat, would we have so many open walkways?

And I swear the insides of buildings are made of the exact same materials as my high school, down to the design on the tiles.

Just what kind of college was this supposed to be?

Now, I’m not actually from Fresno. In January, I had the pleasure of moving to a city some consider “the Armpit of California.” To be honest, I’ve seen parts of Fresno that are less than pleasing to the eyes. Unlike most students starting this semester, I’ve actually been to a previous college, Las Positas College, so the only thing that is really new to me is the college itself and how it does things. And Las Positas is a really nice college too. So, is Fresno City College dirt when compared to my former college?

No, not at all.

While this was my first summer in Fresno, FCC has been here for many. Every building is cool no matter the heat, and those empty areas are covered in tall trees that provide plenty of shade. The high school feel of the school is probably a huge comfort to those fresh out of high school.

Besides, the outsides of the buildings are mainly covered in brick, leaving the impression of a classic university. While there are some narrow walkways between buildings, there’s also wide pathways. FCC actually offers plenty of areas for students to be while not in a classroom, whether it’s laying on the grass in the shade or getting together to playing pool. Hell, even just seeing students sitting together OUTSIDE helps give FCC a better sense of community and a pleasant feel to the school.

Despite everything FCC does right, there are some glaring problems. However, most of these problems aren’t really FCC’s fault, for instance: the heat.

While there’s nothing that can be done about the heat, I do think an increase in the amount of water fountains (the drinking kind) couldn’t hurt. Now I may just be a big baby and don’t want to just bring water to campus, but then again this is my article about my opinion.

All in all, Fresno City College seems to be a great institution and I have no problems with furthering my education here.

Illustration/Bobby Brown

‘Pokémon Go’ Can Energize the Campus

BY ERIC ZAMORA

Reporter ezamora@therampageonline.com

L

ike most people, I have downloaded Pokémon Go. Many nights, when I walked my dog, I ran through my neighborhood searching for any Pokémon that would come my way.

It was fun for a few days, and then I just stopped caring. I never

played Pokémon growing up, so the nostalgia factor wasn’t there for me.

And I already do enough cardio at the gym, so the thought of having to physically work for my Pokémon was not that appealing (even though this is a silly point to make, in hindsight). As a result, the novelty of the game wore off very quickly.

Still, everywhere I go, people are still playing Pokémon Go. That is especially true here on our college campus. Students are enamored of the thought of being one of the first to “catch them all.” But even I must admit that there are ways the game has influenced our campus positively.

One positive is that students can

obtain college credit for playing the game. With the start of the new PE-6 walking class this semester, students can get a unit of credit for playing their favorite game. In addition to the credit, students enrolled in the class stay active. That may not be much, but the thought of playing a game one enjoys while earning credit for it can make students look forward to coming to the campus.

Another positive aspect of the game is that it makes students connect more with the landmarks on campus. The school has multiple Pokémon gyms -- places where players can battle each other, as well as Pokéstops -- places that provide items in the game. Consequently, students are getting to know the campus better and are exploring different areas such as the Art Space Gallery.

The biggest outcome of the Pokemon Go movement is the new interactions between students. This game could help first time students feel more comfortable about being on campus and meeting new people. The game has created an easy talking point between students, and an obvious mutual interest. Overall, it creates a much more positive environment for the student body, and can help students relax during the stressful parts of the semester.

Obviously, the game has its negatives. The biggest issue I could see with the game is that students will procrastinate on doing their work due to playing, if they’re obsessed.

Through its engaging gameplay, Pokémon Go could be the unifying force that binds the FCC community toward a common cause.

It’s Time for a Real Alternative to the Two-Party Farce

BY EDWARD SMITH

Reporter esmith@therampageonline.com

Given the choice between life in prison and the death penalty, the choice for any rational person is pretty clear. The choice any sane person would make would be neither.

Throughout the political conventions, pundits and pollsters alike are doing their best to defeat both the “Bernie-or-Bust” and the “Never Trump” movements.

They use scare tactics, threatening that one side or the other will be elected, falling into the same, wornout rhetoric of ‘voting for the lesser evil’.

Yet, some candidates have learned to tap into the youth vote. They have had to adapt their message to speak directly to the unrelenting idealism of youth, and for us to let that energy disappear would be a crime to ourselves and to our future.

Let’s face it. Donald Trump has no chance of winning this election, and there is nothing to fear from his campaign. His polls are as empty as his campaign’s bank account and he has alienated all of his potential donors, including the Koch Brothers, who won’t give him a dime.

Hillary Clinton stands poised to sweep the election out from under Trump’s feet holding double digit

leads across the nation, and at the same time, we are told that a vote for the Green or Libertarian Parties are a vote for the opposition.

To most of America, neither candidate has any credibility, or even identifiable standards by which they live. Donald Trump says whatever he feels at the moment, with no evidence of any personal principles or philosophies, and he is apparently willing to risk the livelihoods of millions of people living in the United States and even those who can claim U.S. citizenship by implementing laws that would achieve his goals.

He casts aspersions and threats against terrorists, who can seemingly be anyone with a disagreeable voice to his. He has even gone so far as to threaten the families of those he would call terrorists, putting the fragile and already questionable standards of justice further into a dark and very relative place.

For Hillary Clinton, her past and funding casts an irreconcilable doubt onto the claims she makes for advancing human rights and equality. She accepts money from sources directly opposed to what she says she is fighting for, including accepting millions of dollars from Wall Street bankers and Saudi Arabia.

The carte blanche loyalty she enjoys from the U.S. Justice department is also very unsettling especially given the gravity of the crimes many accuse her of committing. She seems to be blatantly flaunting her I’m-above-the-law attitude before the American people and expects no ramifications to come of it. Americans should not tolerate this kind of continued glib attitude about what

she and other politicians get away with on a regular basis.

The past few presidential elections have brought a changing demographic into the political spectrum, but it seems the same old binary has yet to catch up and adapt to these changing times.

This year, it was anticipated that Bernie Sanders would do the same; however, while he got millions of young people involved in the political process, it was not enough to defeat Hillary Clinton’s Democratic machine. His campaign got rolled over, and many young people are finding themselves exactly where they have been for most of history -- jaded and marginalized by the choices laid out before them.

There is an alternative.

As Millennials and newcomers to the political system, we need to introduce what makes us powerful and unique. Thus far, the Johnson/ Weld and Stein/Baraka campaigns represent a breath of life into American politics.

They represent a beginning that we can look forward to, and casting our votes into an already decided election is the best thing we can do in this election. In a country celebrated by its diversity, it is a shame that we don’t have a political system to reflect the breadth of people within it.

What we need to consider is a totally new path -- looking beyond the traditional two-party system to third and fourth parties, who represent a broader solution outside merely right or left politics. Let’s send a signal to Washington that we have had enough of the two party system.

OPINION

CAMPUS VOICES

What is your best advice for new students?

Bryan Lee, Air Conditioning

“If you don’t learn one way, try another.”

Chuck Erven, Theatre Arts

“Biggest tip #1: Go to class, be there, attend.”

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RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

Community Colleges Offer More than Book Knowledge

BY ALY HONORE

Reporter ahonore@therampageonline.com

A

t this time in 2014, I was writing college admission essays, feigning what I thought was wisdom and worldliness. I realize now that I had no grasp of either of those things and that I was not ready to go away to a four-year university.

Still, like many of my friends, we were bent on going away from home. I never considered an alternative starting point -- an accessible and nurturing two-year option -- a community college. Two years later, I know better.

When I was younger, the idea of college was the light at the end of the tunnel, my ticket out of here, and my saving grace. But reality sunk in when I learned that room and board is not free in the real world, and what I thought would be my rebirth, a graceful and glamorous introduction to adult life, would actually cost a fortune.

Decisions about colleges, financing, and gaining exactly what one wants out of college has become a grappling and stressful experience for young adults who are eager,

beyond logical thought, to leave the nest. Rather than an interest in knowledge, young adults have been conditioned to only seek a degree and a good time in campus lounges and frat houses.

Some of us, however, are not so lucky. A stint at any four-year university would have sent me spiraling into a debt that would have consumed the paychecks from whatever job I landed afterwards.

So maybe I’m not living it up in the Bay Area, or strutting the streets of New York while earning a degree, but I appreciate the amount of education I’m essentially receiving for free, and everything I’m learning along the way. However, the fact that a lot of students convince themselves that they have to go straight to a four-year college is dispiriting.

Once I had gotten over the shortcomings of financial aid, and the harsh reality that I, in fact, would not be handed everything I want in young adulthood, I uncovered hidden gems in this gritty, unglamorous back-alley that is Fresno City College.

Eighteen years old and fresh out of high school, all I wanted was to be worldly. I thought community college was the end of my hopes and dreams, the genesis of a new life in which I would be perpetually doomed to settle.

However, in just over a year, I’ve grown so much and learned enough to officially want to push

the 18-year-old me off a cliff for being so arrogant. This educational pathway has provided me a different privilege -- exposure to peers who work long hours just to be part of this brilliant experience of higher learning.

Sitting at my desk with a 10-page research paper prompt and a fixed deadline has forced me to grow from the immature, intimidated and sometimes self-deprecating young writer. I’ve relearned the definition of “change” more times than I can count from a countless number of people and am still curious as to how one can effect it.

The pressure that comes with attending an expensive university, having to get educated and get out with as little debt as possible, may have stopped me from experiencing life lessons that go beyond status.

Community college continues to humanize me, something that I’m not sure I could experience so thoroughly at an overwhelming or impersonal four-year.

I’ve never felt so close to becoming the person I want to be because of the things I could only learn here.

I have peers that take on reality rather than student loan debt and are willing to find the beauty in taking the underrated, and often discredited, route in education.

I hope that other students who feel like their hands were forced to community college understand the positive outcomes that they learn before they leave this campus.

To be a gallery assistant extraordinaire LETTER TO THE EDITOR Karla Kirk, African-American Studies

“Invest in good bedding.

That’s where you rest and recharge.”

Laura Strait, Mathematics

“Don’t procrastinate on homework and studying.”

Mark Trezza, Political Science

“Go to class, and pay attention. Showing up is half the equation.”

If you have passed by the main campus fountain and have bumped into the sign neighboring the snack stand that says “OPEN, ART SPACE GALLERY” you are warm!

Just follow the arrow into the main entrance to the Art Department building and you will find the Gallery’s entrance on your left. An awkward entrance, I know, but as you walk in, your eyes will widen with a visual stimulus and your heart will slow down to accelerate your concentration.

A bright gallery assistant greets you with a smile and warmly welcomes you in, asking you to sign in or leave your heavy loads near the front desk to peruse the gallery freely. If it’s Anita, she will begin by engaging you in questions about your major, what drove you to come in, and to share with you her first-time experience seeing the show.

She is not an art major, but she grew up in Mexico, where she says she saw art everywhere she went.

She remembers her town’s colorful traditions in music, holiday street decorations, and distinctive clothing. She confesses she does not know anything about art, but has an affinity toward some works of art but does not entirely understand why. She just ‘loves’ some pieces and is excited to share them with you.

Anita likes to walk you through the gallery, if you are up for it, and talk about those pieces. Something in them ‘moves’ her. She ‘sees’ in

them things that she can relate to, but can’t explain what exactly. She also welcomes your thoughts and opinions, and if you come up with some exceptional reasoning, she will pick your brain for hours.

If you come early, you will be greeted by Martin. A tall, handsome man, with a bright smile. He will wait for you to walk through the gallery and at the end, he will ask you a question or two and immediately engage you into an interesting conversation, that will end with laughs. He knows plenty about art; how it was made, or who made it and why. If he doesn’t, he will speculate, but intelligently. He will keep your mind thinking through funny anecdotes. There is no conversation that is too long for Martin.

His enthusiasm about knowledge is contagious.

Now, if you are greeted by Crystal, you know that she can answer any question, and if she doesn’t know it, she will find out. She is more of a manager and loves to keep everything running correctly and on time.

She has a mission, and that is to be helpful and efficient.

Her many talents and skills come from a history of helping her brother, a general contractor, and her many successful job skills in retail and office work. She can go up a 12-foot ladder with no problem, use hand and electric tools ingeniously, carry more than 50lbs, sew delicately and be proficient at any Microsoft Office program.

If Crystal doesn’t know something, she will figure it out correctly. She is a go getter in her multi-canine

household –three Nikita-Husky dogs and a husband (not a canine!) And, she manages her home as she does her work like she does her career, and has fun doing it.

So, I wonder “why was I so lucky to find this awesome help?”

I am blessed that these dedicated students applied for the job and passed a demanding interview. To be a great Gallery Assistant I don’t require an art background, but to be curious in the arts, and respectful of people’s creativity.

The other requirement is to figure out how to solve problems, multitask, take pride in your work, be punctual and reliable. Not be afraid of trying anything new, and be creative when dealing with situations that make you uncomfortable.

As in all jobs, if you try hard, are open to suggestions, have good communication with your manager and present yourself proudly, you will do well. The same requirements are asked by your teachers.

This is all part of a student’s education: know how to apply what you learn in school on the job. Not only will this lead you to a prolonged employment, but your present teacher or manager will be happy to write you glowing letter of recommendation for a future job, career and higher education.

Come meet our wonderful team and experience all this on your own.

Oh, and come see our exhibition; you won’t regret it.

TERESA DIAZ

ART SPACE GALLERY CURATOR

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RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

SPORTS

Five Inducted to Football Wall of Fame

BY CEDRIC HOOD

Reporter chood@therampageonline.com

Five former Rams were inducted to the Fresno City College Football Wall of Fame on Aug. 28 at the 27th annual Induction Dinner at Pardini’s Restaurant.

The 2016 honorees were Kyle Biggs, Zac Diles, Derek Hubbard, LaVance Ray and Marquell Stinson.

Frances Lippman, retired director of admissions and records, was also inducted as the cornerstone.

“These players were told they had to be a good football player and a good teammate,” Tony Caviglia, head football coach said.

Caviglia said each inductee transferred from FCC and graduated with degrees from some of the best colleges in the country. He had told the inductees what he tells all his players. “You’ve got to be productive in society.”

He said it was the inductees’

hardwork and commitment to society that earned them the honor of the Wall of Fame.

All the inductees expressed gratitude for the honor.

Inductee LaVance Ray advised the current football team to uphold the Ram standard. “Don’t give the other schools a claim to fame for beating a dominant Rams football team,” he said.

At the ceremony, each inductee had a special table which they shared with family and friends and were able to share their memories of being on the FCC football team.

The men talked about having to study hard to maintain good grades along with early morning and late night practices. They also recalled the games and the fans and the victories and losses.

Now with the recognition, these former players will continue to influence future generations of players who can see their names on the Wall of Fame and aspire to do

Five former football atheletes were inducted to the Wall of Fame on Aug. 28, 2016 Photo/Savanna Manzo the same.

The Football Wall of Fame organizers also honor an individual who has supported the program and contributed to the team. Frances Lippman, the Cornerstone inductee for 2016, had relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, after her retirement was

there with her husband, retired FCC counselor, Fred Emerling as well as her family and friends.

Caviglia said Lippman aided the success of the football program. He said, “I couldn’t do my job without you.”

Sports Calendar September 2016 M Soccer @ Salinas (TBA) W Soccer @ Ventura (7pm) Volleyball @ Fresno (TBA)

M Soccer @ Salinas (TBA)

M Soccer @ Fresno (4pm)

W Soccer @ Fresno (11am)

M Soccer @ Clovis (4pm)

Football @ Rocklin (2pm) M Soccer @ Salinas (TBA) W Soccer @ Ventura (11am)

M Soccer @ Salinas (TBA)

M Soccer @ Fresno (3p.m.) Football @ Fresno (5p.m.)

W Soccer @ Fresno (5p.m.) Volleyball @ Stockton (TBA) Volleyball @ Stockton (TBA)

M Soccer @ Redwood City (4p.m.)

W Soccer @ Cypress (3:30 pm) Volleyball @ Coalinga (6pm)

W Soccer @ Fresno (5pm) Volleyball @ Fresno (6pm)

Volleyball @ Sonora (6pm)

Volleyball @ Fresno (6pm) M Soccer @ Fresno (4pm) W Soccer @ San Jose (7pm)

Football @ San Mateo (2pm) M Soccer @ Fresno (1pm)

Volleyball @ Aptos (TBA) Football @ Fresno (6pm)

M Soccer @ Fresno (4pm) Volleyball @ Fresno (6pm)

Illustration/Lukas Newcomb

SPORTS

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RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

Upholding Tradition -- Women’s Badminton Team Wins 2016 State Championship

BY MICHAEL FORD

Sports Editor mford@therampageonline.com

I

n the tradition of athletic excellence at Fresno City College, the women’s badminton program, which started in 2000, captured its first state championship in the spring of 2016.

Before the season started, not a whole lot of people, including members of the team, expected the team to end up as state champions.

Carol Kadingo, the head coach of the team since its inception, said she had doubts at the start of the season about whether their team had what it took to win a state title.

Kadingo said her doubts were related to the scarcity of talent and absence of other teams in the Central Valley.

“No one in the Central Valley Conference plays badminton,” said Kadingo. “Every time we need to play someone on the road, we are going to San Francisco City College; we are going to Skyline college; we are going to De Anza College, Mission College.”

Those Bay area colleges also have the advantage of recruiting from a much larger pool of athletes and therefore more talent because “badminton is much more popular in the bay area than it is here,” she added.

Although the team went undefeated, the players still had to work through some issues early on. Sophomore Leslie Lam said the issues were related to unfamiliarity among some of the players.

Still, the talent level was there for FCC; as the season progressed, the

Basketball Women’s basketball head coach Brian Tessler leads his squad of neophytes into the 2016 season as they look to advance past the state semifinals. This iteration of Rams basketball will feature a young but talented roster. Nine of the 14 players on the roster of Freshman.

Tessler isn’t worried about his team’s youth, in fact he doesn’t even like using the word young.

Quite honestly, anyone that uses the word younger is making excuses. It’s a two-year college, you are always going to have a number of freshmen along with a number of sophomores,”Tessler said. “We never use the word younger. We just feel like every year we have a good amount of kids that return and we expect our freshmen to come in contribute right away.”

Freshman standout guard Mikayla Mabie believes that conditioning is going to be the team’s edge over the competition.

“That’s really what his focus is on every single drill. We rarely do half court drills. He is all about full-court drills. Coach wants us to pretty much perfect,” Mabie said.

team’s skills started to show up in the results, and those results caused a boost of confidence.

“In the beginning of our season, we were all starting out fresh; some of us had played previous years, and some of us were starting our first years,” Lam said. “This became a slight obstacle; we had to learn how to work together, but also be a team player.”

The struggles didn’t last for very long.

Both Kadingo and numerous other players were quick to point to a match against De Anza in mid-April as their turning point when they hit their stride as a team.

“By the time that we got through

By the time that we got through the first round, I had a pretty good idea and suspicion that we might be able to end up being the conference representatives in the state championship.”

- Carol Kadingo Badminton Head Coach the first round, I had a pretty good idea and suspicion that we might be able to end up being the conference representative in the state championship,” Kadingo said.

Sophomore Belinda Vue agrees

Soccer Soccer at Fresno City is extremely healthy as both the men’s and women’s teams reached the state final four but both teams lost before reaching the state finals. The men’s team features a sophomore heavy roster with several key players coming back.

“Our leading scorer Jose Ramirez is back, our leading scorer from 2 years ago Jose Torres after redshirting last year.

Our two captains Jesse Camarena and Andy Rios where the anchor of our defense last year, and they are back,” said head coach Eric Solberg.

Women’s soccer head coach Oliver Germond has a younger squad than their male counterparts. I think that we have 30 players and 20 of them are freshmen. That is more than usual. It just happens that way,” said Germond. Starting the season as the third ranked team in the nation, Germond and his squad look to bounce back from their state semifinal against Cerritos. The Rams got their season started on the right track as they beat American River on August 26.

The 2016 FCC Badminton Team won the state championship in May 2016. Photo/Special to the Rampage with her coach. “At one point in the season, while we were still competing in the league and went against DeAnza and beat them with a great score lead, that’s when we hit our stride as a team.

Once the Rams got on a roll, there was no stopping them from going where they intended, a state title.

Badminton in California is unique as there is only one round of playoff, the final game.

“There are no regionals,” Kadingo said. “If you are the conference champion in northern California, you also immediately get elevated into the state championship. You leapfrog all those other sports that play many levels of playoffs.”

Winning the conference guaranteed that the Fresno City College team would make just its second appearance in the final, both under Kadingo. In its previous state championship appearance in 2007, the Rams lost 19-2.

Kadingo and her team were determined to not allow history repeat itself in Pasadena.

The final matches in both singles and doubles competition were fierce and hotly contested. In order for Fresno to win it all, the players needed some big time efforts from the bottom part of the team’s

Women Swimming/ Water Polo Women’s water polo team is hoping for a strong season that matches the progress they made during the offseason. Head coach Gianna Rossi is hoping that goaltender Danielle Mask and attacker Kiley Gill have a strong season, resulting in a possible top four finish in northern California regionals to advance to state.

The team starts its season on Sept. 11-12 in a two-day Cuesta Tournament which will feature some of the best teams in the state and give the Rams a strong test of how their season will progress.

“Our offseason has been going well, which is huge for us to build trust among teammates. As trust is not given it’s earned, to rely on each other to the top of their ability to do well this season,” said Rossi.

ladder. Fortunately for the Rams, the depth of talent on the roster was very strong.

This allowed Fresno to come back even though their first two players on the ladder lost to their opponent, Pasadena City College.

In a turn around, the Rams’ depth saved the day as the bottom three of the ladder of Wenting Liang, Lam and Vue all won their second matches, securing victory.

Players and coach were ecstatic in describing their experience in Pasadena and winning a state championship.

“This is the seventeenth year of women’s badminton at the college,” Kadingo said. “I have been the head coach the entire time, and so it was very exciting that it was the first time that we were successful and were state champions.”

Lams said that what comes to her mind when she hears the words ‘2016 Rams badminton’ is the facial expression on the coaches and players when the team won its last match.

“The faces were priceless, and it was hard to believe that we won,” Lams said. “And to this day, it is still hard to believe that we won our title as state championships of 2016.”

Women’s Volleyball The Rams are starting a new chapter in their program with first-year head coach Kieran Roblee who inherited a strong roster with the likes of Sydney Molander, Alexis March and Sydney Rigby returning from last season. The Rams are determined to keep the Rams program strong with sights on both a conference and state championship.

The Rams start their season with a double header matches against American River and Foothill on Sept 3.

Roblee said, “The Transition to head coach was smooth, as the goals I have are the same for this team before I got here -- to be at the highest level.”

Reporting/Rampage Sports Staff

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RAMPAGE 8.31.2016

SPORTS

BY MICHAEL MENDEZ

Reporter mmendez@therampageonline.com

A

s the fall semester begins, it means that special time of the year that has students looking forward to the thing that is the fall sports lineup. None have been looked at with greater anticipation than the Fresno City College football season. As the Rams start their season on Sept 3., they look to achieve big things this season with the hopes of a conference title and a state championship.

The Rams finished the 2015 season with a 6-5 record, capped off with their twenty-fifth straight bowl appearance at the State Center Bowl, where they fell in a close 31-28 contest to Sierra College. Now, the Rams are looking to avenge their bowl loss by facing their bowl opponents in their season opener on Sept 3.

The Rams are stampeding their way their into the season lead by head coach Tony Caviglia who has been the Rams play caller for 15 years.

Coach Caviglia believes he has a great group of Illustration/Lukas Newcomb

athletes who will do well this season. Both sides of the ball show the perfect blend of youth, leadership, experience and natural talent to have them be a team to watch out for as the season progresses.

“Our offense is solid right now, we have a great group of guys that work really hard and performed well this offseason. We have great depth on defense with experienced starters. We are just sorting out our two’s and three positions on our depth chart, but I expect big things out of our defence this season,” said Caviglia. Getting close to the start of the season, each player is trying to find the grooves of their positions while establishing a brotherhood with each other.

First year wide receiver Eric Pugh believes his offseason is a great transition from high school to college.

“The best asset to my game is my speed and transition from high school football to college was good with game speed

being more fast, while having great coaches and teammates coming together to do great things this season,” said Pugh.

Focus and ambition is what drives a team to go above what they have set for themselves. That can result in taking what they have done last season and building on it this season. Second year running back Clarence White knows what he achieved last season, but he knows that there are bigger and better games with higher hopes and opportunities for him and his team to thrive.

“I was a little rusty last year, but from then I got better because I believe you should try to get better by learning your position then take what you know to try to help others in the process,” said White.

The Rams have a tough road ahead this season as their schedule features seven bowl teams from the 2015 season, with their first home game of the season against Santa Rosa on Sept.

10. Moving ahead, they will face school rivals Reedley College on Oct. 1, and end their final home game of the season against San Joaquin Delta on Nov. 5. Their season opener will be the ultimate test of who the Rams are and how they will be as the season goes on.

So get your rally towels and bring your school spirit because football season is finally here.

Photos/Larry Valenzuela