Blackout at FCC Since 1949
Volume CXIII, edition 4
by Joseph Rios
Editor in Chief Fresno City College experienced a total blackout at approximately 1:15 p.m. yesterday. Electricity disappeared from the bungalows along Van Ness Ave , to the cafeteria and all the way to the Health Science building on the other side of the underpass. Members of the faculty calmly evacuated students and staff from every building about 15-20 minutes later. With no cause or solution in sight, Dr. Ned Doffoney ordered the cancellation of late afternoon and evening classes. Doffoney made the call at 1:55 p.m. No official cause for the blackout was determined at press time. There were murmurs of a blown transformer floating throughout campus, but once
again, no official cause could be determined. No time table regarding the ongoing repairs could be ascertained either. Crews worked late into the afternoon. With a portable light tower in place, the electricians set up for a long night to come. While students and staff filed out during the evacuation, two wheel chair bound students in particular found themselves trapped above Yoshino’s and the Social Science building. Without a working elevator, the Fire Department had to be called in to assist the students down the stairs. Teachers tried to go on with instruction in various ways all over campus. In the lower level pit of the Math and Science building, students grouped up with their notebooks on their laps and went over the lecture with their professors.
October 10, 2007
Photo by Joseph Rios
Banners like this one were met with smiles as they notified students of their cancelled classes. A political science class circled up on the grassy knoll just east of the social science building. Art students, who are used to drawing outside, went about their business on the patch of grass next to the theatre. Doffoney’s order to halt classes came with an order to clear
the campus. All students, staff, and anyone not associated with the situation were to vacate the campus. The safety of the students was the main goal, Doffoney said. Large orange barricades blocked the parking lot entrances. Long banners like the one near the
Charlie Vang
Photo by Joseph Rios
Blue placards like this grant disabled students access to the blue-lined parking stalls sprinkled around campus.
The Other
Josie Gonzalez
Racefor the Asma Ziyada
under pass informed student that all classes had been cancelled. Most students met the signs with joy and left with smiles. One student was dropped off for his night class only to see all the signs. He picked up his cell phone and dialed his ride. “Turn around,” he said.
Brinesha Simon
Parking Problem Crown by Joseph Rios
Editor in Chief Whether it involves inching up and down the aisles, scanning for exiting cars, honking the horn, or shouting out the window, the parking problem strikes an angry chord with almost everyone who drives onto the Fresno City College campus. Instructors lobby for more spots near their offices and students cry for more student spots and cheaper passes. Some say build a parking garage, others say carpool. Why? So they do not have to walk
half a block to get to class. And while the 20,000 students and faculty quarrel over the 3,000 spots on campus, five hundred disabled students are fighting over 72. Students like Kris Stewart arrive an hour early to secure her disabled parking spot. For most students, a distant parking stall means a dampened brow and touch of tardiness, but for Stewart, this means a troublesome hike from her car to her class. She has a prosthetic leg. Doctors amputated her left leg mid-thigh to choke off the cancer swelling near her femur when she was only eleven years old.
In ten years, she has not shaken her limp. Prolonged walks cause unwanted strain on the rest of her body.“It’s a lot of work,” said Stewart. “It makes my back, my calves, and my ankle on the other leg hurt.” Of the approximately 1700 disabled students, 350-500 students drive themselves to campus everyday. Disabled parking spaces are spread about the campus where they would best serve the disabled students. The Americans with Disabilities Act stipulates that any facility with over 1001 total parkSee “Students” page 2
Kia Yang
Erika Gutierrez
Homecoming 2007
by Adrine Avanesyan
Rampage Reporter A tiara, a crown, a football game, cheerleaders, and school spirit; what does that spell? HOMECOMING! FCC Homecoming week began October 8 and will run through October 13.Tickets can be purchased in the college activities office. The theme for this years Homecoming is “Rams on Safari.” FCC activites office encourages students to get involved in college activities and have some fun and gain a lot of school spirit. Homecoming tailgate fes-
tivities start on October 13 at 4:30 p.m. at Ratcliffe stadium. Later, the FCC Rams play against West Hills College. Kick-off will be at 7 p.m. What is Homecoming without royalty? Fresno City College students will be able to elect their very own king and queen. All candidates attended a mandatory candidate meeting on Oct. 2, where the candidates learned the rules and regulations of the campaign. Voting for Homecoming royalty will be held for three days: Oct. 9 and 10, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Oct. 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
News
2 Rampage
October 10, 2007
TheRampage
Fresno City College’s Premier Student-Ran Publication
Rampage
Fresno City College 1101 E. University Ave. Fresno, CA 93741
Editor-in-chief: Joseph A. Rios News Editor: Joseph A. Rios Views Editor: Leah Edwards Entertainment Editor: Cody Gless Photo Editor: Blake Gollmer Business Manager: Leah Edwards Adviser: Dympna Ugwu-Oju
Students offered mobility Photo by Joseph Rios
Mobility drivers offer a welcomed service to disabled students looking to get from class-to-class.
Continued from page 1 ing spots must have a minimum of 20 and add one for each 100 over 1000 total spots. Fresno City College has 3087 total parking spots on campus. According to the law, the college should provide a minimum of 41 disabled parking stalls. FCC has 72. The highest concentration of disabled spots occurs just south of the language arts building (16). The second highest (11), occurs in front of Ratcliffe stadium by the Police Academy. The remaining 45 are spread out to the other 18 parking lots on campus. Stewart said that on a number of occasions, a vehicle without a blue placard or a special license plate has occupied a disabled parking stall. District Director of Disabled Students Programs & Services, Janice Emerzian, has been known to yell at people who wrongfully park in the blue-lined
spots.
Doffoney.
As Director of DSP&S, Emerzian fights for the programs, opportunities, and, yes, even more parking for disabled students. However, it’s not a business that always makes friends. And with a campus full of fed-up parkers, a little hostility is expected. “I say, ‘Would you like to trade spots with one of them?’” Mrs. Emerzian said. “People don’t understand how difficult it is. By the time they get from the lot to class, they’re exhausted.” Student and faculty drivers are vying for, as President Ned Doffoney said, “a bigger slice of the same sized pie.” The bottom line is that there are a set number of spots on campus, and there is no land surrounding the campus where more can be built. Each group on campus wants more slots and there are not enough to give. “We’re not going to add any more disabled parking stalls,” said
Moblility Drivers With a schedule in hand, drivers,(known playfully amongst themselves as the MB Ridaz) swoop up registered DSP&S students as they exit their classes and then wisk them away to their next. The carts become essential for disabled students leaving the forum hall en route to the health science building. With a little coordination and a lot of communication between students and drivers, the service runs smoothly.
Reporters Leah Edwards, Joseph Rios, Eddie Ortiz, Cody Gless, Deshad Cato, Carrie Gunter, Marcell Dilworth, Alexis Abrahamson, Joseph Boone, Shirah Hopper, Ivette Lopez, Jen Langworthy, Adrine Avanesyan, Blake Gollmer, Julie Hamilton, Pedro Quintana, Jeannie Batey, Amber Donabedian, Cynthia Moreno
Business: (559) 442-8262 Production Rm:(559) 442-8263 Fax: (559) 265-5783
Classifieds Communications Center, Inc.
Rampage business Office: rampage-business@ fresnocitycollege.edu
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News
October 10, 2007
Rampage 3
FCC embraces
Banned books by Joseph Boone Rampage Reporter
Students gathered at the Fresno City College library last Friday to enjoy familiar readings all day long celebrating the American Library Association’s annual Banned Books Week. Students and staff read in half hour blocks from books that all had the commonalities of being timeless literature and targets of censorship. Dr. Jill Minar, professor of anthropology, kicked off the festival with a lovely passage from “A Wrinkle in Time.” Later, Bob Boyd, professor of philosophy, read from “Alice in Wonderland.” The day was packed with great works of literature and executed in a manner that allowed on-the-go students the freedom to come and go as their schedules allowed. Donna Chandler, FCC’s public service librarian who organized the event, presented a series of child picture books, including Maurice Sendak’s “Where the Wild Things Are.” She spoke of how the book was challenged because the monsters were scary. “From what I hear, the monsters were actually patterned after his Brooklyn relatives,” she said. What are banned books? The name is not literal, thanks to the perseverance of librarians and booksellers across the country to maintain the integrity of our first amendment rights in regard to literature. The label “banned books” signifies that all of the featured books were targets of attempted banning/censorship last year. Maintaining open access to information is “the main torch of a library’s work,” said Chandler. The process of banning a book is technically known as chal-
lenging a book. It involves individual libraries, who receive a written request; usually a form issued by the library, that the book in question be removed from its shelves. The form generally asks questions to make sure the person attempting to de-shelve the book actually read it and has a genuine problem with the book. A common way librarians deal with challenges is to simply ask if the challenger would like to see another piece of literature on the shelf to “counter” it; thus expanding access to information rather than stifling it. “It’s not necessarily the loss of the books, but the loss of the freedom that it implies,” said Chandler. According to the ALA, Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell’s “And Tango Makes Three” was the most challenged book of 2006. In the book, a baby penguin’s mother dies, and it is raised by two male penguins. The book is actually based on a true story, yet continues to be a primary target for library removal. Reasons for challenging have varied, but offensive language, homosexuality, and simply being “unsuited to age-group” have been common themes. An absent theme would be that of race, which used to always have a reserved seat among reasons why books were challenged. Chandler spoke of the many challenges to “The Rabbit’s Wedding” years ago. The controversy stemmed from the stories’ marriage of a black and white rabbit. Since 1982, the ALA has spearheaded this annual awareness campaign during the last week of September to help preserve open access to literature. “Free People Read Freely” has been the slogan.
Photos by Joseph Rios
Above: Fresno City College music instructor Larry Honda blows on his saxaphone as a part of the Fresno City College Jazz Composers Orchestra’ s performance of “African Skies.” Right: Orchestra director and chair of the music department, Mike Dana, strums his guitar during the group’s concert at Fresno State on Oct 8.
Jazz
A sensational night to the tune of...
by Ivette Lopez Rampage Reporter Fresno State’s Concert Hall was turned into a Jazz lover’s paradise last Monday night as Fresno State jazz students, along with The Fresno City College Jazz Composers Orchestra joined hands in what was a very upbeat jazz concert. What started as a typical music concert ended as more of a festivity as the Fresno State Jazz Band “A” students took the stage to kick off the night. Playing music by composers such as Mike Barone, Tom Kubis, Kim Richmond, Charlie Parker and Rob McConnell, the young musicians had the entire audience mesmerized as they displayed their talents late into the evening. The ensemble of 21 students, under the direction of Dr. Michael Caldwell, truly captured the essence of jazz. After Fresno State’s last song “Yardbird Suite”, the audience had another very special treat as the very experienced members of the Fresno City College Jazz Composers Orchestra took the stage. With the direction of Mike Dana, the Director of Jazz Studies and chair of the music department
at Fresno City College, this group had their audience bopping their heads to the tunes of composers such as Bob Brookmeyer, Michael Brecker, Herbie Hancock, Clare Fischer, Thelonious Monk, Maria Schneider and Hideaki Nakaji. The transitions between the slow, smooth jazz and the faster more upbeat jazz songs played with the listener’s emotions, making them reminiscence about long lost loves with slower tunes such as “For Maria” to having them jump in their seats with joy by playing songs such as “Tah-DUM” and “African Skies.” With a very talented group of musicians, Jazz Composers didn’t fail to impress. Dana, as well as multiple of his other colleagues have earned near celebrity status among various jazz players in the city as well as around the globe. Musicians such as Larry Honda, Dale Engstrom, and Joe Lizama can all be seen around the Fresno City College campus as they are involved in the music department through instruction and direction. Both Honda and Engstrom are currently members of the music faculty on campus, while Lizama teaches percussion to Fresno City College students on
a daily basis. There are also some Fresno City College alumni such as Steven Madden in the group, keeping the Ram spirit present in the styles of jazz. Other members such as Gene Doi have played for legendary music groups such as the Temptations and Wayne Newton. Adan Infante, a trombone player in the ensemble has played for celebrities such as The Roots and even hip-hop superstar Ludacris. Even other successful musicians such as The Who, and The Four Tops have been graced with jazz legends like Gene Doi and Les Nunes. Japan, Korea and Europe have even been hit with the jazz craze as percussion player Brian Hamada has toured with festivals at such places. The atmosphere in the hall left one wanting to come back for more. Luckily for those jazz fanatics, various events ae planned with even more talent. For more information on other future jazz concerts, visit www.jazzfresno.com for more details. As for those that visited Fresno State on Monday night, they witnessed a captivating display of musicianship and talent throughout the night.
4 Rampage
News
October 10, 2007
Manual Ramirez chose a life of fighting crime
Photos by Carrie Guner
Counter-clockwise from top left: FCC Training Officer Jerry Herring’s badge; Manuel Ramirez; mock-suspect is arrested during a training exercise; poster outside the training facility; Ramirez’s name plate; Ramirez arrests a suspect during a training exercise. “You’re out there trying to make by Carrie Gunter normally called when someone is having a lenges of helping people and assisting them a difference,” he said. “I’m not part of good day. in times of crisis. Rampage Reporter “If you really want to be an officer, In high school, Ramirez was always the problem, I’m part of the solution and This Fresno City College student you truly have to have it in your heart to on the right side of the law by staying away the main thing is treating people with reopted not to waste time standing in the unspect.” really want to help people,” Ramirez said. from the drug scene. employment line after losing his job. Herring said Ramirez brings a lot of “When I go to a call and leave that place, He witnessed first-hand the damage Manuel Ramirez has had a life-long if I made a difference, that’s satisfaction drugs caused young kids and the terrible ef- positive things to the program. “He’s just a dream and he is finally making it happen by right there.” fect it had on their families. “I never wanted really good guy,” he said. stepping into the line of duty. He is currently The dream of becoming a police As a police officer, Ramirez could to be exposed to that,” he said. enrolled in FCC’s police academy. spend a day taking reports of crimes, counRamirez wants to focus on youths officer was cemented during a high school “Police work is something I’ve alseling a runaway teen, arresting a wanted and domestic violence. He wants to help Career Day presentation when a Califorways wanted to do,” stated the Dos Palos person or helping an elderly or lost person. young kids avoid becoming a victim and/or nia Highway Patrol officer’s presentation native. He said being a cop is more than a caught his attention. He said he looks forward to the daily chal- offender. macho thing. “That’s what really started the spark,” He would often see incidents on the he said. “And from there on, I started the road while on his way to work and wished testing process.” he was in a patrol car so he could stop and “When I put this vest on, I’m telling myself I’m going to do However, soon after graduating in help. 1992, Ramirez began working for De Franeverything I possibly can to come home.” FCC’s police academy is broken up cesco and Sons located in Firebaugh. into academic courses, physical training and -Manual Ramirez The steady income became a higher police techniques. See “Passion“ page 5 The curriculum covers over 42 topical areas that include criminal law, investigations, patrol and juvenile procedures, vehicle operations, traffic, emergency management, first aid, professionalism and ethics and physical training. “Once you come through our academy, you can become a police officer or sheriff deputy anywhere in the state of California,” stated FCC Academy Recruit Training Officer Jesse Herring. “There’s 41 police academies in California, about half are agency specific where they’re run by their own departments.” FCC’s academy is unique because it has a staff of instructors from the Fresno Police Department, Fresno County Sheriff ’s Department, the District Attorney’s Office and the Kingsburg Police Department. “We bring a variety of experience,” Herring stated. The diverse training will better prepare Ramirez for the challenges soon to come because it is not all about car chases, lights and sirens. Police officers are faced with a multitude of problems and are not
October 10, 2007
Passion with risks
Continued from page 4 priority when he married his high school sweet heart and had his first son in 1993. Ramirez put his dream of becoming a police officer on the back burner. “It [police career] was always there,” he said. Ramirez started moving up the chain of command at the processing plant. His strong leadership skills helped him move up to shipping supervisor. “I felt comfortable there,” he said. During 13 years at the company, Ramirez believed it was going to be around for a long time because the company had prospered for more than 35-years. He was committed to remain grounded at the company until the day he retired. “But it didn’t happen,” he said. “Due to the export of Chinese products coming in, and high gas prices, the company couldn’t compete with competitors and shut down.” Instead of taking his loss as a negative, Ramirez took this time to follow a new career path in law enforcement and there was certainly no routine in his job of choice. He is also well aware of his future occupational hazards. “When I put this vest on, I’m telling myself I’m going to do everything I possibly can to come home,” Ramirez said. “Every call is not the same and something can happen that could end your life. Officer safety is always first.” Herring said the academy currently has 55 cadets. Individuals interested in the program can start as early as 18-years-old but you have to be 21-years-old to be an officer. Herring said the program has no age limit beyond that requirement and 33year-old Ramirez is actually an asset to the program. “A person like Ramirez will become a better officer because he’s got life experience and can relate in situations,” he said. “We actually have several cadets in their 40’s here, we’ve had them up into the early 50’s.” “Currently there are 8,500 openings in California in law enforcement and our police academy system can only put out 5,000 a year,” Herring stated. “So we’re going to be playing catch-up for quite a while.” After completing the program, Herring said about 90% of the students actually obtain jobs right out of the FCC academy. “We typically get 45 to 55 departments coming to recruit here,” Herring said. “Any where from San Diego to Ukiah.” “They’re very happy with the students that come out of here,” he added. “So they keep coming.” Herring said the overall cost of the intense six-month program is $3,000 to $3,500 which includes tuition, books, uniforms, gear, gun, ammo and physical training clothes. Ramirez has applied to a lot of law enforcement agencies, but has not yet been picked up by any department yet. “I would like to work in a bigger community where I can get exposure and get more experience out in the streets,” he said. Ramirez is due to graduate from the academy December 7th. When he is not concentrating on his new career path, he also volunteers as a firefighter and coaches football and wrestling to kids 5 to 12 years of age. He now has four children and has already discovered how to balance family life and police work. “Work is work and you leave it at work,” he said. “It’s not the time you spend with your kids, it’s the quality that counts.”
News
Rampage 5
News
Rampage 6
October 10, 2007
Thou Vang
Exceptional talent, solid character by Leah Edwards
Rampage Reporter Thou Vang is not your average 22-year-old college student. This musician has an exceptional voice and quiet charm that completely envelopes a person. He is surrounded by humility when he lists his numerous activities. Vang takes it all in stride and seems unaware of how truly exceptional he is. Along with his mainstream musical endeavors, Vang is a member of the FCC City Singers, FCC College Choir and heavily involved in the FCC’s Music Department as a vocal major. “He’s a gentle giant in the program. He doesn’t call a lot of attention to himself; but when he commits, he commits 100% to everything he does. And he manages it all,” said Choral Director of the Fresno City Music Department, Julie Dana. Coming from a traditional Hmong family with 12 brothers and 7 sisters, Vang said he learned patience. His father always told him patience is the most important virtue you can have, it will take you a long way. Vang’s patience and talent have definitely taken him a long way. Last May, Vang traveled to Milan, Venice, Florence and Rome with the Fresno City Singers. “It was the best experience I’ve ever
Thou Vang gives back to the community that supports his musical passion. had in my life,” stated Vang. “All thanks to Choral Director of the Fresno City Music Department, Mrs. Julie Dana. This year the Fresno City Singers plan to go to Washington D.C. and the FCC Concert Band is planning their own trip to Italy. Vang said he is excited and already planning fund raising events. Vang also works for KBIF (900 AM) and KIRV (1510 AM) in
Fresno as a technical board technician and DJ. He co-hosts Generation X with Trace Yang, Sai Xiong, and Mou Vang. Generation X offers a medium for Hmong teens to discuss a variety of issues they face. The show airs Mondays through Fridays from 4 to 6 pm on KBIF (900 AM) and listeners are encouraged to call in at (559) 230-0900. According to host of
Photo by Carrie Gunter
Testify and co-worker, Alice Jarnagin, Vang is “talented, smart and his voice is to die for,” she said, “It is amazing, all that he does, yet he stays on top of things.” And if all that wasn’t enough, Vang is a member of two acapella groups. The Purl A Capella along with Andrew Brewer, William Her, Nelson Her, and Michael Her who recently performed at the Paul Paul Theatre
in Fresno. His other group is Sing Out Loud with Marcus Jenkins, Thomas LaRocque, Robert Lopez, Andrew Lohuis, Bobby Jimenez, and Francisco Gonzales, which performed in Las Vegas for California School Employees Association. Along with his extensive musical commitments, he also makes time to participate in the Hmong Club/Asian Club Activities and numerous events with Generation X throughout the year and is finishing his general education. According to FCC Music Instructor Mike Dana, “He is serious, but not boring. When Thou is in your class, you say good. It’s going to be a good day.” Vang credits his 6th grade teacher at Lowell Elementary. Bob Russell laid the foundation for his current ambitions. “If it wasn’t for him, I’d never have gotten into music or radio,” said Vang. “He taught me to become truly conscious of how I play.” To hear more of Vang, and the other City Singers attend the upcoming performance when they combine with the Jazz Ensemble on October 24th. Or, if you are in the mood for a more classical performance, the City Singers will be performing the following day at Fresno State in the Choral Festival. Whichever your preference, you are guaranteed an exceptional musical experience.
7 Rampage
Entertainment
October 10, 2007
Eastern Promises Shows Promise
Anna (Naomi Watts) then meets Nikolai Luzhin, played by Mortensen, a driver and “cleaner” for Semyon and his son Krill, played by Vincent Cassel,. Now, I don’t want to give away the whole plot because it would ruin the movie. I will say however that there is a twist in the movie that you may or may not see coming. It was
refreshing to see such an original plot that involved mobs. We usually see these really outlandish versions of mobs portrayed in movies, no where close to the real thing. “Eastern Promises” paints a realistic portrayal of its characters an that really helps, If it where any other way the movie wouldn’t have worked. Another big part of this films success is its talent. All of the aforementioned actors play their parts excellently. As with most of Cronenbergs’ films no one actor overshadows another. Viggo shines in this film this is true, but so do everyone else and that’s why it works. This film is all about the acting, there are no weak device plots to move the story along in an way. Yes the violence very vivid, but not every scene has violence in it like many of Hollywood’s recent releases . In fact, there are only three real violent scenes in the whole movie. Instead of having every scene have a shootout or some half drawn chase scene the violence is used as mood setter. It hangs in the air and gives the movie an intense feeling throughout the screening. Every scene has the potential to break out, and again this is kept up by the fine acting. Again, if you’re a little queasy about seeing realistic then I suggest you skip out on this one, but if your like me and can appreciate a movie that is both realistic and riveting then I suggest you go out and see this movie before its run in theaters ends. Most movies like this don’t hang around for long.
eration as he easily captures the essence of Ben Wade, the malevolent bank robber and gunslinger he portrays in the film. Christian Bale’s performance as Dan Evans, a down on his luck farmer and civil war veteran desperately in need of money to keep his land, only furthers the point that he is more than the caped crusader that helped launch him to success. Coupled with this is the great supporting cast. Ben Foster, who played Angel in X-Men: The Last Stand, is perfect as the loyal but blood thirsty co-captain to Ben
Wades gang of outlaws. On the story side of things “3:10 to Yuma” does not fail to disappoint. Truly, the story of a man desperate for money and the respect of his family who decides to risk it all and help transport a famous bank robber to his judgment train is a nice change from the revenge driven storylines westerns are often associated with. Mix this in with the likeable, although villainous portrayal of Ben Wade and the movie rounds out nicely. Of course a western wouldn’t be a western without gun fights, and 3:10 has them in abundance. From the spectacular stage coach robbery that helps open the film, to the gut wrenching shoot out ending 3:10 packs a punch. But don’t get me wrong, this movie isn’t all about flying bullets. Dialogue plays a major part in the film. Crowe is well known for his ability to improvise lines with ease, and Bale has history deep rooted in independent films. The way the two stars go back and forth, trading memorable lines with each other and the rest of the cast turns 3:10 into more than your average foray into old west. But, let me slow down. All is not well with this movie. The ending did not exactly match up well. It felt like a departure from the rest of the film, which flowed so well. By the end of the film you not sure who to root for because the film, unlike most westerns, doesn’t deal in black and white. The characters live life in the gray area and all have good and bad sides, but the ending tries to force you into picking sides and making the characters one dimensional. The whole thing felt like the film tried to have it’s cake and eat it to. A little tweak in the ending and the film would’ve been perfect, although this point is easily forgiven thanks to the overall quality of the film.
by Deshad Cato Rampage Reporter
Viggo Mortensen and director David Cronenberg are fast becoming the Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro of the film world…okay, maybe I’m exaggerating a bit but the fact remains that Mortensen and Cronenberg have two very successful and critically acclaimed movies under their belts. The first being the Academy Award nominated “A History Of Violence” and the second being their newest effort “Eastern Promises.” “Eastern Promises” much like “A History Of Violence” is not for the weak of heart. It’s a very dark, very gritty, very violent movie with a gruesome murder happening within the first fifteen minutes. Although never cartoon like in its approach to executing said violence “Eastern Promises” may sometimes be a tad much for viewers. So, if your not fond of seeing gruesome amounts of very realistic violence then I suggest you skip this move and wait for the next Viggo or Cronenberg flick. Now, for those of us who have no problem seeing such violence occur on such a grand scale “Eastern Promises” is a superb movie. I know the phrase “Oscar Worthy” gets tossed around a lot but this movie really lives up to the description. Set in present day Russia the story revolves around the death of a 14 year old prostitute named Tatiana who dies while giving birth. Anna Khitrova, played perfectly
Photo Provided by google.com
by Naomi Watts, a mid-wife at a London hospital finds the diary of Tatiana after first helping save Tatiana’s baby daughter. In the dairy she finds a card for a Trans-Siberian restaurant, which is owned by Semyon, played by Armin MuellerStahl, who she doesn’t know is a Russian mob boss.
3:10 Yuma: Not Just Any Ole’ Western
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by Deshad Cato Rampage Reporter
When it comes to tales of the wild wild west Hollywood has seen its share of them. It would be impossible to try and count all the movies there are about gun slingers, bandits, dirty sheriffs, and even dirty rail road contractors. Although, there are a few movies
who stand out amongst the pack most have been reworked imaginations of a more successful film or just plain old bad ideas from the get go. Luckily for us the recent release of “3:10 to Yuma” staring Russell Crowe and Christian Bale is far from bad, even though it is reworked. In keeping with Tinsel Towns newfound amazement with remaking old classics “3:10 to Yuma” is a remake, albeit a very good one. This is largely thanks to the films two main stars. Russell Crowe once again proves why he is one of the finest actors of this gen-
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Entertainment
October 10, 2007
FCC YOU VOTE: For This Weeks Best Cars by Jeannie Batey Rampage Reporter
2006 Chevrolet Tahoe
#2
LAST ISSUE’S WINNER Thanks for voting.
Good Eats and Hot Beats
photo by: Marcell Dilworth
by Marcell Dilworth Rampage Reporter
Offer available to new residential customers or former residential customers whose accounts are in good standing and who have not had Comcast Cable service during the last 60 days (and is not available to former Comcast customers with unpaid balances), located in Comcast wired and serviceable areas. After promotional period standard rates and equipment charges apply. Certain services are available separately or as part of other levels of service. VIDEO: $24.99 a month for 9 months applies to Starter Cable only and 6.0 Mbps High-Speed Internet access only. Basic service subscription is required to receive other services or levels of service of video programming. Fee installation offer applicable to standard video installation to one existing cable outlet and self-installation kit. Additional installation fees may apply. High-Speed Internet only installation charge $50 off professional installation. Pricing, programming, channel location and packaging may change. ON DEMAND requires subscription to a qualifying digital cable package and ON DEMAND selections subject to charge indicated at time of purchase. ON DEMAND programs are subject to change. Not all services available in all areas. Certain restrictions apply. May not be combined with other discounts or offers. Speed comparison for downloads only and compared to 1.5Mbps DSL. Maximum download speeds of 6Mbps. Actual speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Rates and availability of promotional pricing vary for non-Comcast cable video customers. Offer may not include equipment charges. After promotional period, standard rates and equipment charges apply. May not be combined with any other discount or offer. Installation fees may apply. Prices shown do not include taxes and fees. Other restrictions may apply. Pricing and content may change. Call Comcast for restrictions, minimum requirements, and details about service and prices. Use subject to Comcast High-Speed Internet Subscriber Agreement terms and conditions. Call Comcast for restrictions, minimum requirements, and details about service and prices. Prices do not include applicable taxes or franchise fees. Use subject to Comcast Cable Agreement terms and conditions. ©2007 Comcast. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. First month of service plus installation cost or $25, whichever is greater, may be collected at time of installation. Offer expires 10/15/07.
Fresno City College students & staff can kick back and eat soul food while enjoying some soft R&B music at the Smokehouse Restaurant. The unique restaurant is located at 1231 Van Ness Street next to the Bank of the West across from Well Fargo Bank in Downtown Fresno. Many students and staff have already discovered the The Smoke House restaurant, even President of FCC, Dr. Ned Doffoney. “I have gone for lunch, gone for dinner and I have enjoyed it,” said Doffoney. He went on to say he appreciated the way customers are treated. “For me real, measure of barbecue is the smoked flavor and the sauce,” he added. “They do a good job with both of them.” The Smokehouse Restaurant does not shortchange its costumers on their meal portions. Their ribs are filled with meat and the chicken wings are huge as well. Another popular dish is the fish & chips plate. The prices of the meals range from $7.00 to $20.00. The Smokehouse’s environment is a great place for the general public, but also formal enough for business meetings. Whatever your choice may be, you will
enjoy entertainment and a great meal. In fact, there’s some form of entertainment to suit everyone. The venue ranges from an open microphone for poetry readings, to comedy events and there’s a local disc jockey playing request for customers. Wednesday night is Poetry night. The event is called, “Soul Tree Lounge,” hosted by two local radio disc jockeys going by the names of Lady J and Lady Bombay. Students from FCC can kick back; maybe have drinks while enjoying spoken word of poetry or tunes sung from random customers. FCC freshman and Psychology major, Ashley Taylor, previously read a poem called, “I am black I am woman.” “It came from growing up and being the only black girl in the class,” Taylor said as she spoke about her feelings as a child. Lady Bombay, a freshmen here at FCC, majoring in Social Work along “Soul Sister” Lady J, a friend of Taylor who has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication and Journalism; both were able recognize Taylor’s talent and invited her to lounge. This evening began with a video of a live concert played on the 90 inch television screen. The Smokehouse slowly filled for the most part, students of FCC and FSU along with a few professional businessmen who were having a meeting earlier that evening. The Smokehouse Restaurant also offers catering services for all occasions. For more information call (559) 237-1188.
October 10, 2007
Entertainment
ZIGGY MARLEY
by Cody Gless
A Tightly Rolled Performance
Entertainment Editor
Legend and Legacy, Ziggy Marley rocked the Paul Paul Theatre Saturday October, 6th during his set promoting his latest L.P. release, “Love Is My Religion,” winner of the 2007 Grammy Awards for best reggae album. Fans of all different ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds gathered around the stage and were taken in by Marley’s melodic sound. From high school students to the suited business professional, all of the reggae fans skanked side by side in harmony with Ziggy’s flow. The green, yellow, and red Rastafarian lights that ignited the night, along with the hint of natural mystic floating through the sea of people, made this concert one to go down in the books. This tightly rolled performance was one of the most serene and uplifting concerts that this reporter has ever had the privilege of attending. There was not a hint of malice or discontent through out the audience, the combination of his love themed performance along with the aromatic “Marleyesque Incense” burning made it impossible to walk away without a smile. Kingston native Ziggy Marley began his career in music at the early age of ten when he would tour and perform with his father, Bob Marley. Ziggy has now won four Grammy awards for his musical mastery;
photo by: Blake Gollmer
“...LOVE...”
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three with his kin based group the “Melody Makers” a group consisting of brothers Damian and Stephen Marley; holding down his most recent Grammy with his solo venture, “Love Is My Religion.” Ziggy receives his genre influences from the an eclectic mix of musical genius, from father, Bob Marley to a wide variety other of artists including Marvin Gaye, Fela Kuti, and Miles Davis; Ziggy’s sound is classically innovative. Ziggy Marley also plays an active role in his community, being an advocate for programs such as the youth AIDS campaign as well as the founder of U.R.G.E (Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment), a non profit organization that focuses on serving several charitable children’s causes in Jamaica, Ethiopia, and other developing nations. Overall, Ziggy Marley is an amazing musician and collective person as a whole, promoting love, peace and spirituality in his lyrics and backing up his profound words with action. Ziggy truly is a class act. When asked what his general philosophy on life was Ziggy responded simply with “Love...” Apply love in your everyday affairs and in all aspects of your life, The world would be a better place if people would just relax, pop in some reggae and let life flow. Everyone should take a page from the book of Marley, spread love, promote peace, and live life to its fullest... ...It only comes around once... Background photo provided by: Cody Gless
October 10, 2007
Campus Voices
Sumila Darden Pharmacist major “KSEE 24 or FOX.”
Pathana Phonsey Chemistry major “From classmates and the Fresno Bee, of course.”
Michael Garza X-ray Technician major “The Fresno Bee, Yahoo Internet or Time Magazine.”
Torry Johnson Liberal Arts major “Everything. CNN, Bill O’Reilly.” Photos by Joseph Riios Interviews by Carrie Gunter
Views
October 10, 2007
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Where do you get your news? Campus Voices
by Carrie Gunter Rampage Reporter
The younger generation seems more interested in entertainment when getting their news. Rather than a serious study of politics that affect their lives, they turn to individuals like Jon Stewart to entertain them with comedic renditions, thereby losing sight of the real issues. College students need to become more involved and informed with politics and should not use The Daily Show, hosted by Stewart, as their primary source of information. Stewart may interview politicians and appear to be a news commentary show, but the show centers on a comedic interpretation of politics and our national news. Stewart is not a political analyst, he just “plays” one on TV. However, almost 1 ½ million viewers end up at Comedy Central nightly. When surfing channels, many skip legitimate news programs because it may be considered dull and boring. Stewart sucessfully pulls in a mass audience with his comical political format and handsome smile. The combo captures a vast audience and may seem like an alternative, but he is more concerned with his own popularity than the country’s future. The Daily Show belittles the US political system and may actually deter voting. According to Washington Post Columnist, Richard Morin, two political scientists found that young people who watch Stewart’s faux news program develop cynical views about politics and politicians that could lead them to just say no to voting. What most teens forget is that they actually have a say in how the country is run, both local and national. Developing a distaste and mocking our political system is no reason to distance oneself from the process. Voting is our right to take an active part in changing the political landscape. If citizens are unhappy with political players, the country’s laws, regulations and restrictions are then imperative. One should never miss out on the voting process. It gives an individual an opportunity to express their right to free speech. Living in a democracy is a privilege and it sets us apart from many countries. We can play a role in the solidarity, prosperity and security of our country’s future. You cannot complain about the state of our government if you are not even registered to vote. There is a difference between being a political analyst a political and activist. A political analyst begins with a balanced approach and then sifts through information to find truth. A political activist often picks a side and argues to influence the majority opinion that may not already be accepted by the mass. Protests to the Vietnam War began on college campuses in 1964. By 1967, polls indicated, due to student activism, a majority of Americans were opposed to the war and wanted it to end. College students were successful as political activists by rallying for US officials to end the war. Undeniably, their voices were heard. Stewart has no voice or focus as far as politics. However, he uses politics to fool some into thinking he knows about the political arena. But he is not trying to bring about change
Thomas Sullivan “Sometimes I’ll watch CSPAN. There’s no monitoring someone sitting in front of the desk.”
www.allposters.com
and has no goal other than maintaining his wide audience. Shows like The Daily Show, Letterman, Mad TV and Saturday Night Live all poke fun at politics but they are in a business to entertain, not inform. Most would not even consider tuning into Saturday Night Live to determine who they were going to vote for in the next election. However, Stewart has caught the attention of many and if he is indeed crossed over and part of the political media, he has an obligation to inform and enlighten the public about social and/or political change. At this point in time, he fails as a so-called political analyst or activist by providing his so-called “fake news”. Remember, Stewart is a stand-up comedian. He may never change his format because he makes his living off of humor. His remarks on national television have no positive effect on U.S. administration policies. In fact, his comically negative discourse about President Bush’s decreasing national approval ratings only fuels negative world-wide opinion which makes the U.S. seem more like a dysfunctional country than a world-wide super-power. Tim Russert is an alternative for those wanting to hear the truth about politics. His Sunday-morning interview show invites serious candidates with serious platforms. Meet the Press specializes in interviewing national leaders on issues of state, economics and foreign policy. Guests are challenged on actual facts and allegations. Unlike The Daily show, Meet the Press fulfills the obligation of providing a public service to the community. According to the US Census Bureau, 80 % of 18-24 year olds failed to vote in the last presidential election. Stewart’s audience fits into this age group and there is no doubt the audience loves him. However, he fails his audience by not presenting a balanced approach to the political process. Poking fun at our political players encourages his younger audience to further distance
themselves from the process. Young people are the future of this country, and arguably the most important voters, yet they remain the least represented. Maybe they have bought into Stewart’s rhetoric that politics are full of misgivings and will never change. Teens already believe their participation resolves nothing. However, things could change if he could promote and point out that the beauty of our nation is freedom and citizens can do something about huge issues within our nation. We have the right to vote and one vote counts just as much as any other, even the President’s. What makes this country so great is that every American adult citizen has the right to laugh, even at our top leaders. Active voices can and has promote change throughout time. Students should become more involved in the political system and participate by running out to cast ballots. Without active involvement, democracy will fail. Stewart touts the show’s format still serves a public interest by informing the populace of worldwide hypocrisies. However, ridiculing serious matters and using slapstick comedy is only a distraction technique used to fool American’s from what is really going on in the real world. If you’re interested in the national political arena, do not rely on Stewart’s passive approach to our political system. He doesn’t hold politicians accountable, just merely pokes fun at them and we should not rely on comedy to explain politics. Stewart may be funny on television, but he appeals to a selfselected audience that reminds him often of his greatness. If he had a platform in Washington, he would be playing to a different crowd and his laughs would not get him very far. With all of its imperfections, the “Stewart-effect” points out that our political system has its flaws. Whether conservative or liberal, young or old, everyone should get out and vote.
Tim Demichiallie Undecided major “I usually look it up on the internet, usually CNN blog spaces.”
Alicia Ramirez Mortician major Alicia has not yet registered to vote, but gets her political information from the Fresno Bee.
Kaitlyn Williams Physical Therapy major “Usually from my family. Whatever my parents are watching.”
October 10, 2007
Views
Battle of the Sexes by Pedro Quintana Rampage Reporter
tives Officer (CEO). For example we have Indra Nooyi, the CEO of Pepsi. Brenda C. Barnes, the President of the famous Sara With all the hype of a female run- Lee brand of pies and bread. But, only 8 ning for president, I started to wonder if CEOS out of the 500 top companies that the work force world dominated by the we have around the world it is still a really men was starting to shift? Have all the men small number. gone off to war and left the women to take Here in the Central Valley women care of the working world? And how many have broken through previous barriers women have gone off to war? Do we still such as Carolyn Tomin, the Chancellor of have a bias-working environment? Are we UC Merced. We also have four women out still bias towards women? It seems women of the seven board members of the Fresno have shown that they can do anything a Unified School District. We also have two man can. women that serve in the Fresno County The history of women has shown Board of Education. Additionally, we have that they bea female District long in this Attorney, Elizabeth hard workEgan. So, here in ing world the the Central Valley same as men. we are seeing that They don’t women are shifthave to stay at ing the dominance home baking away from men. cookies and So, overall I cleaning. believe that facts Womprove it is still a en are reachman’s world, but ing new women are coming heights in the up. Men still domijob market. nate the top posiThey are in tions in record numpositions of bers and there are authority: postill too few women lice officers, in the highest paygovernment ing positions. officials, and Women are Judges. They still fighting to have joined overcome stereowww.fresnostatenews.com the ranks of First female Fresno County Sherriff, Margaret types and attitudes military offithat hold them back. cers, astronauts, CEO’s and just about every But, we have learned from history that position once held strictly by men. women will not give up without a fight. We Many great women have fought have seen women like Rosa Parks, Sharon for women’s rights since the 1920’s with Christa McAuliffe and the recent valley Susan B. Anthony, who led the fight for native Barbara R. Morgan who went on women’s right to vote. Women have come the Space Shuttle Mission. Yes, women along way. are achieving what some once said was the Now, in 2007 women are real con- impossible. tenders in the running for public office. So, what do you say men? With all They are making history. Here in the Cen- the successes of these great women, Can’t tral Valley, just last year Margaret Mims we just let them in the Big Boy’s club? was voted in as the first woman to serve as If the American public isn’t ready Fresno County Sheriff. That gives a whole to let women lead, what is all the hype new spin to the saying, ‘We got a new sheriff with Hillary Clinton? Do voters see her in town.’ as a politician, or do they see her husband Even with success, women must Bill Clinton in the debates with her? Do continue to fight for they focus on her pink equal representation. lipstick? With only 24 women She is a womserving in the Califoran. But, will she be the nia State Senate out of woman to break the 80 seats, there is still final barrier of Presiplenty of room for dent? It is really hard improvement. to make that decision, At the Federal or to know what votlevel, we have 62 ers are really thinking. women serving in the Perhaps, she is just House of Representaopening the door that tives out of 435 repreanother woman may sentatives. There are follow through later. only 13 female U.S. Only time will tell. Senators out of 100, Win or lose, two from California, each time a woman and Hillary Clinton, stands up and takes Presidential hopeful over a position once spaceflight.nasa.gov Barbara R. Morgan among them. held by men she gives other women When we see the hope to follow their dreams. And the actual numbers we might ask ourselves perhaps one day the percentages in top if women aren’t as interested in politics positions will be equal to the numbers in as men. But, that isn’t the case. According society. Hiliary’s race may just open the to the polls, more women than men go out doors that men once locked and closed. And and vote. I believe we are shifting towards a different Perhaps the reason women take poli- world: one where more men are staying tics more seriously is because of how hard home and women are the breadwinners in they fought for the privilege. The proof is the family. in the progress made from the early 1700’s Maybe, ten or twenty years from to present day. now the world will be dominantly lead Today, there are eight women by women and we will be saying, “It is a worldwide who are top Company Execu- Women’s World out there!”
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On the road again... Views
12 Rampage
by Joseph Boone Rampage Reporter
Joy, love, beauty... All were absent from my mind as I received my first speeding ticket the other day. It left me thinking about the sheer number of hours I spend driving, burned away like the cigarette ash that just got flicked out of the car in front of me. But as my anger receded, I
was able to more thoroughly appreciate all of the different emotions driving can inspire. I realized that driving is a world of its own. It’s a world with its own etiquette, its own stereotypes, and its own beauty. I began to be more perceptive of the different personalities on the road. I would notice the car that humbly waited for pedestrians to pass rather than nearly pummeling them over while making its right turn a whopping 20 seconds sooner
October 10, 2007
than if it had waited. I would in turn appreciate the pedestrian who hustled across the street, so as to minimalize his interruption on the flow of traffic. My thank-you wave after being let in a long line gained resolve. My anger towards the two cars at the back of the left-turn line obviously running a red light turned into a sort of perverse amusement. As a pedestrian , p eo p le shouting random obscenities as they drove by turned into my best
friends. No one could put a bigger smile on my face. So here I am, experiencing much more joy, love, and beauty on the road. I have convinced myself that individuals should take steps to drive in a happier state, even if it means simply viewing the same situation differently. Just think, instead of letting road rage consume you, you start feeling a bit giddy. It can make the difference between a really bad day and a quirky one.
Fox: building bridges not walls BizTalk 2007, The Business Conference with Connections was held on Friday, October 5th at the Visalia Convention Center from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. The second annual event was held in an effort to focus on the entrepreneurial skills of people within the Central Valley. The conference’s focus was to promote the importance of the business sector and its vitality for the enrichment of the country. The main highlight of the conference this year was the arrival of guest speakers, ex-President of Mexico, Vicente Fox and his wife, Marta de Fox. Vicente Fox was president of Mexico from 2000 through 2006. He was born in Mexico City on July 2, 1942 and was the second of nine children. His father was Jose Luis Fox Pont, an American citizen and his mother was Mercedes Quesada Etxaide, a Spanish immigrant. His roots are traced back to German Catholic immigrants who migrated to the United States. He studied at the Universidad Iberoamericana where he pursued a business degree and earned a diploma in Top Management Skills from the Business School of Harvard University. He was invited to speak at the conference for his role in the Coca-Cola industry in Mexico. In 1964, he went to work for the Coca-Cola Company where he started as a route supervisor and drove a delivery truck. Soon thereafter, he became the supervisor of Coca-Cola’s operations in Mexico and later, to all of Latin America. As President of Coca Cola Mexico, Vicente Fox made it the top-selling soft drink and increased the sales
“Never place a period where God has placed a comma.” - Grace Allen
while the U.S. racks in over $2 billion in yearly revenue. Fox elaborated on the role MexicanAmericans play in the Central Valley claiming that the largest production of bodies in the world are settled there. He also recognizes the problems with immigration and suggested an ideal immigration policy that he has thoroughly expressed to President George W. Bush: 1) Those who are already in the U.S. with their families and have been contributing to the economy, should be allowed to stay with full access to labor rights, pension plans, education, and healthcare. 2) Those with Visas should be allowed to work in the United States to fill in the employment gaps that many Americans are not fulfilling and lastly, 3) immigrants are necessary for a rapidly growing U.S. economy. On average, there needs to be at least 500,000 new jobs and there are not enough U.S. families growing fast enough to accommodate all of the openings. “We need to build bridges, not construct walls” he concluded while Marta de Fox added, “Men and women are all the same; love and patience are the main ingredients in life; placing your heart in issues that are important is key to success; connecting our intelligence with our heart, soul and knowledge leads to a better understanding of our emotions; and by pursuing education, we discover our dreams.” Fox wrapped up the morning by announcing one of his famous candidacy slogans that made him president of Mexico: “if there is to be any change brought about in the United States or in Mexico, let’s not leave the issues for tomorrow. We have to do something about it Hoy! Hoy! Hoy! (Today! Today! Today!).
Contemporary Worship 11:00 AM Traditional Worship 9:30 AM
God is still speaking.
Join us every Sunday morning.
College Community Congregational Church
United Church of Christ www.collegeccc.org 5550 N. Fresno St. (559) 435-2690 Rev. Dave Schlicher
An open and inclusive family of faith. CollegeAgeGroup (C4) www.myspace.com/cccc4U
by Cynthia Moreno Rampage Reporter
by more than 50%. He was the youngest executive ners, and friends. World leaders should talk openly to ever be appointed president of Coca-Cola in about their religion and Felipe Calderon (Mexico’s Mexico and Latin America. current president) will be the best President that Both Vicente Fox and Marta de Fox are Mexico has ever had. If these statements weren’t often compared as having a political relationship powerful enough, his core concepts for the develsimilar to that between Bill and Hillary Clinton, opment of a nation and for an ideal immigration with Hillary being the head of operations behind policy had the convention center in a constant much of Bill Clinton’s presidency. Like Hillary, standing ovation and pro-longed applause. Marta de Fox has addressed social issues within Vicente Fox’s speech embraced the idea Mexico and as the former spokeswoman for that “to dream the impossible” is to “make things Vicente Fox, andhappen”; a slogan he supported a wide arused to characterize his ray of social causes years at Coca Cola. With including generous this said, he stated that contributions to during his presidency, education in forms he made Mexico the 7th of scholarships tolargest importer in the taling an estimated world and #1 in all of $6 million. Latin America. To him, Considermacroeconomics is key ing that Vicente and to the development of a Marta de Fox were nation, including a wellflown in to the valestablished democracy, a ley at a hefty price sound market economy www.gop.com/images/bush_fox.jpg tag of $110,000, the to generate wealth, and speech did little to fully elaborate lastly, a powerful social poise to upon Vicente’s entrepreneurial skills. His speech promote human development. focused on Mexican family values, ideal immiWith that said, he stated that the chalgration policies and ideas for a thriving economy lenges that Mexican’s face when coming to the both in Mexico and the United States. Little was United States is different from those at home. He said about his success as a young executive, and believes that migration is a strength in the U.S. more on the strengths made in Mexico during the and finds trouble understanding why the ‘great time of his presidency. nation’ hides and shies away from other nations. Vicente Fox’s speech took an approach Moreover, the role Mexico plays with the U.S. is that touched the very hearts of every and any vital to its economy. Mexico buys more products American sitting at the convention center that and services from the U.S. than all European and morning; globalization is not bad. The United Asian markets combined. By importing, Mexico States should open its arms to its neighbors, part- benefits from the creation of millions of jobs,
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Rodriguez offers more than laughs
October 10, 2007
by Cynthia Moreno
Rampage Reporter In lieu of Hispanic Heritage Month, important Hispanics come to mind: Cesar Chavez, a Mexican American labor activist and leader of the United Farm Workers Coalition. He fought for the rights and labor conditions of migrant workers in the 1960’s. Then there is Jorge Ramos, the number one news anchorman for Univision Communications, Inc. He is watched by an audience 10 times greater than CNN’s and has been voted Time Magazine’s Top 25 most influential Hispanics. There is also Ruben Navarrette- central valley born, Harvard educated, and the first Latino syndicated columnist in the history of the Fresno Bee’s newspaper. Last, but not least, there is well-known comedian, Mr. Paul Rodriguez. He is a part-time writer, producer, actor and director. Born of migrant parents, he has performed for well over 1 million people world-wide and has also been voted one of the most influential Hispanics in America. He was awarded the Ruben Salazar Award- an award given to him by the National Council of La Raza. As a comedian, his role within the Latino Community has been through laughter, but his views on politics and the stance of Latinos in the United States have had a more serious tone. As a Central Valley native, he recognizes the strengths and faults of the Hispanic population in the U.S. and wishes that more would “know their history”. As a Mexican-American, Mr. Paul Rodriguez’s perspectives on the Latino population are highlighted so as to encourage them to use their “tremendous power” in light of Hispanic Heritage month. “I always try to bite off more than I can chew” he began about his current projects. “But, if I can have a positive influence in anything, I would start in a history class in East, Los Angeles. There have been many years of errors and omissions and knowing our history is key to establishing our ways” he said in response to Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month is more than taking a look at the impact Hispanics have made through the course of history. It is a look at the contributions, values, culture and traditions they have instilled in the American Kaleidoscope. For one full month, the United States celebrates the culture and traditions of HispanicAmericans whose roots can be traced back to Spain, Mexico and all Spanish-speaking nations of Central America. September 15th was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because of the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries including
“But, if I can have a positive influence in anything, I would start in a history class in East, Los Angeles.” -Paul Rodriguez Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and 18th. In September of 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week. In 1988, it became a month long celebration starting on September 15 – October 15. To date, there are approximately 44 million Hispanic-Americans making them the largest minority group present in the United States. It is estimated that by the year 2050, 1 in every 4 Americans will be of Hispanic origins. “We are vast in numbers, but the few of us [Latinos] that become successful have bastardized our culture” Paul explained. “We are losing our values as a people and for some reason, many of us carry self-hate and self-anger.” One of the important characteristics present in Hispanic-Americans has been their contributions to America’s core values. Unfortunately, “We are only big-hearted people with our own families” Paul explained. “Latinos work very hard and there is much admiration and respect for that. But the ideology behind
how we have become successful is more important” he stated. The list of prominent, well-known and respected Hispanics is endless. The numbers indicate that as a group, they are growing in numbers. However, the black cloud of immigration has instilled fear in many Latinos; much of what the Mexican government can be held accountable for. “Mexico has depended on the United States as a safety-valve for too many years. It certainly doesn’t have an immigration problem, but there are no opportunities there” he explained. Paul was born in Sinaloa, Mexico and stated that he and his family migrated to the United States because they were “starving” there. “The right is on the government in Mexico for their sons, daughters, and politicians to stay there and address these important issues.” The most pressing issue facing many Latinos in the United States has been deportation and the funding going towards the building of a border between the United States and Mexico lead by the Minutemen Project. Their attempt is to put a stop on amnesty. “It is upsetting to me that many of the individuals I see supporting the
Minutemen Project are Hispanics. They are ignorant. It really comes down to who took whose land first.” He explained. For this same reason, he believes that Latinos who get into a position of power should “not forget why they are there” and should make every attempt to take full advantage of their education. Paul did not graduate from high school, but after serving in the Air Force, came back to Los Angeles to finish his high school degree. He then went to Long Beach City, then through the CalState system to finish his degree. Paul has made generous donations to the Hispanic Scholarship Fund for the past 15 years and has admired the dedication and work of students attending junior colleges. Many of these students go for the blue-collar jobs which are essential and the most abundant tying a community together. “School is not a job” he stated. When in school, one has to ask themselves: “Why am I here?” Another problem with Hispanic-Americans is poverty. Statistics show that 22% of Hispanics suffer from poverty, and this number is not reflective of the illegal immigrants present in the United States.
“There are 400 Fresno’s all over California. You cannot find one where Hispanics are not the majority”. Paul explained. Much of the poverty has lead to Latinos being involved with gangs and many parents have not taken active control of the lives of their children. “When I see children running with guns, I ask myself, ‘Where are the parents? I always make sure to tell youths in prisons or involved in gangs, that they don’t see old gang-bangers.’ Reason being: they are killed or imprisoned beginning at youth. Sadly, much of Latino’s gang-related actions involve the deaths of their own “family and friends.” Paul assures that regardless of his views on Hispanics in America, the numbers and strength of their role in the United States is incalculable and could be strengthened if they “are as generous to others as they are to themselves and their immediate families” he said. Much of Paul’s comedy nowadays addresses important issues within the Latino community, but he assures that the purpose of his comedy is to “entertain and to get laughs. There is no blueprint for becoming a comedian. It really comes down to wanting something bad enough and willing to work hard enough for it” he said. His advice and words of wisdom to Fresno City Students and those celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: “find something that you love doing and make good money. God didn’t give us all glamorous jobs, otherwise, we’d all be Selma Hayek’s” he stated. Laugh. Also, “Don’t pursue something to please someone else. You have to sit down and ask yourself, ‘how can I make an impact and leave this world leaving it a better place? How are you applying self-love? Find out what you do better than the average person and go for it”. As Latinos, as a culture, and as a group of individuals in America, Paul states that “Success is being healthy and being surrounded by people that [you] love”. As far as Hispanic Heritage Month, Paul states that the success of Latinos lies in their generosity to their families and to those around them. “If Latinos were anything like Jehovah Witnesses such that they had the determination, compassion, love, and perseverance; If Latino’s had this tenacity as a group, we’d be far ahead than how far we have come.” And certainly, Latinos have come far- the challenge is to accept that there is always room for improvement. Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the achievements of those whose lives have proved fruitful and successful, Paul Rodriguez being among them. The hope is that the successes and strengths of Latino leaders are followed by the youth of our tomorrow, and in spite of the challenges that Latino’s face- we overcome for a better tomorrow. Paul will perform at the Fresno Fair tonight at 7:30 p.m.
Sports
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Double the Savaii;
A.J. Savaii
October 10, 2007
Tony Savaii
Double the Trouble
by Marcell Dilworth
Rampage Reporter The 5-0 Rams of Fresno City College (FCC) understand that there are still a few more real tough games ahead of them; yet, winning the championship is starting to have a nice ring as a goal. There are two twin players on the team named A.J and Tony Savaii; they definitely have a starting roll in the script that if played right will end up with FCC in the championship game against whomever. If you have been to a Fresno City College game, you would have noticed A.J is the player that if the quarterback does not move, he will be pushing the offensive guard right into the quarter back and Tony is the solid player who puts in work like a journeyman on the offensive line. A.J. is a member of a play making defense that has a tendency of forcing the other teams quarterback into making mistakes which usually end up with a FCC defensive player putting points on the board - with an interception
Photo by Joseph Rios
bet you and I can take him,’ said Tony. Fortunately football was the perfect outlet to release their sometime extreme aggression. A.J. believes that if it weren’t for football that he would have ended up hustling in the streets. The two twins also have do because they have to protect The twins also believed what they believe is a sound the quarter back without knowing that the racism had nothing to do philosophy for being students at exactly his QB location.” with the fact that they were poor FCC. Coach Tony Caviglia has a “The defensive linemen or raised in the black community similar philosophy that the twins’ have to get past the offensive line- in the South. “There were some dad offered them before making man and chase after the quarter- people who didn’t like us because their treck to College. back,” then A.J injected his take, we were colored,” said A.J. “Some Caviglia wants to create “He don’t know nothing about called us the N-word. We got into the attitude that their road games defense man. We don’t just rush a lot of fights over that. as well as all their home games the quarterback, you gotta know Taft is the town where the are like a business trip. Their job different techniques, we got to twins were influenced to play is to go into a city and play their know our gap- we gotta know our football. The two 17 year olds can game great and move on to the stunts” another play yelled out remember being moved up a grade next game. the blue “alignment assignment,” from the sixth to the seventh. They Tony said, “My dad told us as A.J. added that point to his list believed that they were moved up to understand that school was first of duties as a defensive lineman because they were too big. football was second.” The Savaii position. They spent their lives using Twins dad explained to them The two were about to ver- their size to their advantage while that what they are doing today at bally take off on each other before they were kids, “We liked to play school and on the football field they were halted. rough in the six-grade,” A.J. said. is about business. “We are just The Savaii twins who They considered themselves to be here to handle our business and moved from North Carolina on to bullies in high school. The twins move on.” HH225ME/Fresno St LTC Rampage 3/5/07 2:16 PM Page 1 Ken Bickel Brown Disk 74.5:HH225ME/F Taft California remember being remember being tested, “every treated like Afro-Americans. body was like ‘that dude is big, I
“We liked to play rough....”
-A.J. Savaii, referring to his childhood or a fumble, ran back for a touch down, he pointing out his belief. “Once our offense starts to click up to the level of the defense, we got a championship team.” His brother Tony seemed to silently agree. It is commonly known that what players do in the trenches of the defensive and offensive line can set the tempo of the game, so the question that was asked was what was it like in the trenches? “On defense, no matter what you’re doing, you’re gonna get hurt. You can get stepped on or get your fingernails ripped off.” A.J held his hand up pointing out his ripped off fingernail. Both of their voices began to intensify as they began cutting in on each other to make their points. “Put it this way,” said Tony, “Offensive linemen have more to
Find out more about Army ROTC's Summer Leader's Training Course. Contact MAJ Barry Whyte at 559-278-5460 or email at bwhyte@csufresno.edu or stop by RM 211 upstairs in the North Gym.
Sports
October 10, 2007
Around
Rampage 15
The
Horns Football
VOLLEYBALL WED OCT 10- VS COLLEGE OF THE SEQUOIAS AT VISALIA 7:00 PM
SAT OCT 13- VS WEST HILLS COLLEGE at FRESNO 7 P.M. Sat OCT 20- VS College of the Sequoias at Visalia 7 p. m.
FRI OCT 12- VS REEDLEY COLLEGE AT FRESNO 7:00 PM
SAT OCT 27- VS SIERRA COLLEGE at FRESNO 7 P. M.
MON OCT 15- VS TAFT COLLEGE AT TAFT 7:00 PM
SAT NOV 3- VS SAN JOAQUIN DELTA COLLEGE FRESNO 7 P. M.
FRI OCT 19- VS COLUMBIA COLLEGE AT COLUMBIA 7:00 PM
SAT NOV 10- VS Reedley College at Reedley 1 p. m.
WED OCT 24- VS WEST HILLS COLLEGE AT FRESNO 7:00 PM
WOMENS SOCCER
MENS SOCCER
Fri. Oct. 12- VS West Hills AT Lemoore 4 pm Tue. Oct. 16- VS Sequoias AT Visalia 4 pm Fri. Oct. 19- VS Taft Fresno 4 pm Fri. Oct. 26- VS Solano AT Fairfield 3:30 pm Fri. Nov. 2- VS West Hills AT Fresno 4 pm
FrI Oct 12- VS College of the Sequoias AT Fresno 4:00 p.m. Tue Oct 16 - VS American River College AT Fresno 4:00 p.m. Fri Oct 19- VS Taft College AT Taft 3:00 p.m. Fri Oct 26- VS West Hills College AT Fresno 4:00 p.m.
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Bulldogs
Rams lend a hand to the
by Joseph Rios
For some, wrestling is only incentive to keep going to college. For the wrestlers at Fresno State, it is an incentive they no longer enjoy. Fresno State eliminated their wrestling program in July of 2006, leaving a roster full of wrestlers out in the cold. In classic wrestler’s fashion, they’re not going without a fight. Since then, the wrestling community has rallied around the
orphaned Bulldogs in hopes of rebuilding their home. “It’s a travesty,” said Fresno City head coach Paul Keysaw. Tonight the Rams host Moorpark College in a coalition with Save Fresno State Wrestling to help raise awareness and garner support. “It was a natural partnership,” said Keysaw. “I would be a fool not to support Fresno State’s wrestling program and help get it reinstated” Paul Ruiz wrestled with
Photo by Joseph Rios
Fresno State from after he graduated from Firebaugh High School in 2005. After taking a year off from school, he returned to the sport he loved, but on a new campus – FCC. He does not know where he would be without wrestling, Ruiz said. “I probably wouldn’t have gone to college after I graduated.” “I would not have finished college or been in the position I’m in without wrestling,” said Keysaw.
October 10, 2007
News
big, big,big,
16
BIG...
Photo by Jen Langworthy
Above: Fair partons enjoy a night-time swing Below, clockwise from left: Rampage Reporters Marcell Dillworth, Joseph Boone, and Jeannie Batey celebrate their fourth place finish in the annual “Media Goat Milking Contest”; Children enjoy an afternoon hunt for gold; spaceship transports riders out of this world; colorful stand offers sweet treats
The big,
Fresno Fair
Photo by Jen Langworthy
Photo by Joseph Rios
by Jen Langworthy Rampage Reporter
The Big Fresno fair is back in town and so are all the familiar sights and sounds that come with it — the smell of pigs roasting on spits and ears of corn smoking on a grill, even the smell of corn dogs begging to be dunked in ketchup. Carnies can be heard yelling “Step right up!” to anyone within three feet of their booths. The fair offers something for everyone. No matter your interests, you’ll find something to catch your eye! See complete story at www.fresnocitycollegerampage.com
Photo by Jen Langworthy
Photo by Alexis Abrahamson