AMPAGE Volume CXXVI Issue 2
FREE
R
February 19, 2014
The Student-Run Newspaper of Fresno City College
President Barack Obama is greeted by Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin upon his arrival at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Friday, Feb. 14, 2014. Photo/ Darlene Wendels
OBAMA OFFERS AID, EMPATHY TO VALLEY
BY KAITLIN REGAN
What’s
Managing Editor kregan@therampageonline.com
President Barack Obama visited the Central Valley on Friday, Feb. 14 to address the California drought.
ROGUE PREVIEW
“We’re going to have to figure out how to play a different game,” Obama said. California, according to Obama, is the nation’s biggest economy and agricultural producer. The drought here has an effect on every American and this includes the cost of the food that is made available. With the severity of this drought in mind and the water usage cuts that are being made, Obama acknowledged what Californians have been doing in an attempt to help themselves. “Californians have all had to come together and already make sacrifices, big and small, to help your neighbors and your state get through
Inside
President Barack Obama visited the Central Valley to meet with community leaders and give remarks on California’s historic drought.
this,” he said. “The good news is California is always on the cutting-edge. Already you use water far more efficiently than you did decades ago. You do it smarter.” In an attempt to alleviate some of the burden on the growers and producers, Obama has asked the Department of Agriculture to accelerate the process of assistance. This is no small task, but Obama has given the DOA a deadline of April 15. Once the program is off the ground and the distribution of checks begins, it is estimated that California producers will receive about $100 million in assistance and the nation as a whole will receive up to $1 billion in assistance.
Obama also addressed the realization that a life built around farming is not easy. He discussed the issues and what he has noticed over the years. “...over the years, I’ve seen how hard it can be to be a farmer,” Obama said. “There are a lot of big producers who are doing really well, but there are even more small farms, family farms, where folks are just scratching out a living and increasingly vulnerable to difficulties in financing and all the inputs involved -- farmers sometimes having to work off the farm, they’ve got a couple of jobs outside the farm just to get health care, just to pay the bills, trying to keep it in the family, and it’s very hard for young farmers to get started.”
MORE VISIT COVERAGE
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
2
NEWS
Rampage Staff Editor-in-Chief Jordan Russell Managing Editor Kaitlin Regan
02.19.2014 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
Fresnans express themselves during Obama’s visit
Spectators sit down along East Dayton Avenue in order to get a good view of Air Force One landing in Fresno Yosemite International Airport on Friday, Feb. 14, 2014. Photo/Abel Cortez
Production Manager Victor Aparicio News Editor Patrick Forrest Opinion Editor Kevynn Gomez Arts & Entertainment Editor Lauren Baker Sports Editor Keaundrey Clark Photo Editor Darlene Wendels Art Director Lauren Baker Copy Chief Jordan Russell Multimedia Editor Michael Monroy Reporters James Clark Yolanda Garzon Daisy Martinez Lizbeth Sanchez Razi Syed Loren Daniels Photojournalists Abel Cortez Akinye Chatmon Alexis Chavez Maria Vargas Multimedia Journalists Desiree Aranjo Rebekah Madison Jarrett Ramones Cresencio Rodriguez David Thammavongsa Business Manager Syndey Excinia Faculty Adviser Lynn Badertscher Journalism Instructor Jefferson Beavers Tip Line: 559.442.8262 Twitter.com/FCCRampage Facebook.com/FCCRampage Instagram.com/FCCRampage YouTube.com/RampageNewsroom Send Questions or Letters to the Editor to: editorial@therampageonline.com Fresno City College C/O The Rampage 1101 E. University Ave Fresno, CA 93741
Journalism Association of Community Colleges
Fresno City College
BY JARRETT RAMONES
Reporter jramones@therampageonline.com
&
CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ
Reporter crodriguez@therampageonline.com
The day president Obama came to town was one of high energy and excitement. Music and chatter radiated from the corner of Chestnut and Dakota avenues as more than 500 people eagerly gathered on the northwest side of the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, hoping to get a glimpse of the president of the United States. Although many came for differing reasons, there was no denying the anticipation. Fresno resident Mario Rodriguez arrived on the scene armed with enthusiasm and his trumpet determined to welcome the president’s arrival despite knowledge of not being able to meet the president himself. “I was born and raised in Fresno and I am here today to support the Democrats. I’m proud of where I come from,” said Rodriguez. Rodriguez, like his late father, works the land as a farmer. His intent was to honor his father’s memory by welcoming the president and being open to any sort of relief the president may offer the Valley. “You have got to be happy and thankful. If you are the most humble man you’ll be the happiest man!” Rodriguez said. Though all were excited by the president’s visit to Fresno, not everyone shared Rodriguez’s positive enthusiasm. Mario Manganiello stood in protest along with his group, the Fresno Brown Berets. “I’m against a lot of what the President does, like, he is pro deportation he gives money to Guantanamo Bay” said Manganiello Manganiello stands opposed to what he believes are failings that the president should be held responsible for and hoped this gathering would be an effective means to send this message out. “He [Obama] said that he was
going to do all these great things when he came into office, he hasn’t really done all of them” Manganeillo said, “He hasn’t attempted enough or tried hard enough to change things.” Manganiello’s primary goal, it seems, is not to offend or harass President Obama but simply to be seen and have his questions answered. Protesting along with Manganiello was Peace Fresno member Dylan Donelley. Donelley’s main priority in coming to the gathering was informing the people of Fresno about the Trans Pacific Partnership and “fracking” that is going on throughout the country. Fracking is a slang term for hydraulic fracturing, a process used to extract oil, gas or even water from the earth by injecting fluid into cracks within rock formations. Despite Donelly’s demonstration, he said he was not there to protest the president and was only there to inform the public about current issues. “We are not all here to look at his big plane, we are here to let him know that he must take action about these issues,” said Donelly. With all the excitement and the growing crowd, it was important that order be maintained—the Fresno Police department set up a perimeter
around the area with the intent to keep the crowd civil. Officer Joe Sacca made clear that all protesters were asked to do it peacefully. Police officers were stationed in the outskirts of the airport to control traffic. When prompted as to how the police were keeping the peace Sacca said, “Basically just keeping crowd control to a minimum.” Despite the amount of people that showed up in the northwest end of the airport to witness the landing of Air Force One, Fresno police officers did not encounter any issues. The crowd’s energy went from excited to ecstatic as in the distance the tiny silhouette of a plane formed. As the plane drew closer, the crowd’s excitement grew—Fresno resident Sandy Reed was thrilled by the chance to see Air Force One touch down. Sandy described her admiration of the president and her hopes that he will provide the Valley with much needed help. “I think he’ll do what he needs to do, if the congressmen in the house back him up, if people have any complaints they better go after the other lazy bums that don’t do anything,” said Reed. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE l TWITTER.COM/CRES_GUEZ
Members of Communications Workers of America protest at Chestnut Avenue west of Fresno Yosemite International Airport, during Obama’s visit to the Valley on Friday, Feb. 14, 2014. The group opposes Obama’s support of TransPacific Partnership and the NSA. Photo/Abel Cortez
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 02.19.2014
NEWS
3
POTUS IN FRESNO: STORY BEHIND THE STORY The experience of covering President Obama’s Central Valley trip
BY JORDAN RUSSELL
veteran reporter for The Fresno Bee. “Male, female, young, old, every ethnic or racial and I’m sure religious background you can find here, with this technology not only getting information out to California but around the globe. How can that not leave you in awe? I’m glad I lived to see it.” With all of the experience around us, it was good to know that we weren’t the only ones who were feeling excited. “This is the first time I have covered a Presidential visit via Air Force One,” Hostetter said. “This is the first time like this and it’s exciting. I’m thrilled.”
Editor-In-Chief jrussell@therampageonline.com
Any student journalist is prepared for the day when they are asked to cover student government, college governance or the state budget. What no one at the Rampage was prepared for was the day when we realized we would be covering President Obama’s visit to the Valley on Friday, Feb. 14. This realization came as a result of many days of planning and correspondence. After all, one does not simply walk into the White House Press Pool. The news of the president’s visit broke on Friday, Feb. 7, and after that, things moved quickly. On Feb. 9, our adviser contacted Jim Boren, executive editor of the Fresno Bee and president of the Fresno City College Journalism Advisory Board, for advice on how to get us in. He directed her to Rep. Jim Costa’s office and Costa’s office directed her to Keith Maley, White House Regional Communication Director. Four days and 16 emails later, five of us received clearance to cover the arrival and departure of Air Force One. The excitement was tangible, but none of us could celebrate too much; we had a teleconference to attend. Earlier that morning, it was announced that Tom Vilsack, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, and Dr. John Holdren, Assistant to the President for Science and Technology and Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, would host a conference call to give the media background on Obama’s visit. As the time to dial in on the call grew closer, we all huddled around our office telephone in anticipation, notepads, pens and recorders at the ready. MOMENT OF TRUTH BY KAITLIN REGAN
Managing Editor kregan@therampageonline.com
Training, classes, hours of preparation and seemingly steady nerves cannot actually prepare you for the biggest press conference of your life. At the Fresno airport on arrival day, members of ABC 30, KSEE 24, The Fresno Bee, the Visalia Times-Delta and The Sacramento Bee gathered around, placing their microphones into the podium and positioning themselves in the best available spot to record Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. They all seemed at ease, but under the surface, were they as nervous as I was? All that I could think at that moment was, “You belong here. Don’t throw up and prove them right.” The golden SUV turned the corner and there was a chorus of sound checks, clicking pens and shuff ling. My chest was knotting together and the lump in my throat began to burn, but this was not an opportunity to squander. As U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack walked to the podium, I looked around and every set of eyes was turned on him. He discussed the drought and went over facts that had been discussed in the teleconference the previous night. When it came time for questions,
“CAN YOU DO US A FAVOR?” BY JARRETT RAMONES
Reporter jramones@therampageonline.com
Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack speaks at a news conference at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Friday, Feb. 14, 2014. Vilsack discussed the steps that will be taken to help states that have declared an emergency drought. Photo/Darlene Wendels other reporters were jumping in and over each other to get their questions asked. Frustrated at being talked over, I finally pushed my way through and shouted “Mr. Secretary!” I asked him what steps were being taken on the federal level to conserve water. He responded with an emphasis on this conference being based on immediate need rather than long term planning. In my mind, it was almost a cliched political answer, but it was an answer. I took a step back with shaking legs that no one could see, and I understood that all of the hard work was worth that 30 seconds of action. THE CAGE BY PATRICK FORREST
News Editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
Before Air Force One touched down in our little town, our entire team of reporters and photographers were directed into what was simply known as “the cage,” a small area on
the tarmac that was fenced off where media was allowed to stand. Inside that cage was a collection of media professionals from news outlets all over the state. But it wasn’t just from outlets that you would expect to see. “We have some great sports fans here in the valley,” said Marc Q. Jones, also known as Coach Q on ESPN 940. “And since this is such an agricultural community, we can use sports as a platform to talk about some different things.” There was plenty of laughing and joking while we all waited around for a glimpse of the guest of honor. Once he finally arrived, all eyes stood at attention, with shutters sounding like kickoff at the Super Bowl. The moment was awe-inspiring for all. “Here we are, the president of the United States is coming, and inside of this gaggle of folks that are gathered here shows us how incredible our society is,” said George Hostetter,
The arrival of President Obama in Fresno was not a story I was set to cover—in fact, I had planned to spend the day doing typical Valentine activities. However, I was not able to indulge in such flights of romantic fancy. My day was abruptly interrupted by a phone call from an editor, asking that I spend the day interviewing the hordes of people gathering outside the Fresno Yosemite International Airport who were expectantly waiting for the arrival of the president. I dressed and rushed out the door being heartily met by a muggy heat that encompassed every molecule in the air. Upon arriving at the scene, I was surprised by the number of people who came to, maybe, get a glimpse of the president’s jet -- their dedication was actually kind of impressive. I spent the afternoon interviewing antsy spectators whose eyes were fixed on the horizon. The day went well enough as I filled my notebook with the thoughts and ramblings spectators had regarding Obama’s visit and the pending implications. THE SIGHTING BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ
Reporter crodriguez@therampageonline.com
With no knowledge of covering any aspect of the presidential visit, I planned to only hear about it from others, or see or read it for myself through l CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
A Marine helicopter awaits the arrival of President Barack Obama on the tarmac at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Friday, Feb. 14, 2014. Photo/Darlene Wendels
4
NEWS
02.19.2014
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM facility. DEPARTURE BY JORDAN RUSSELL
Editor-In-Chief jrussell@therampageonline.com
Tripods line the media flatbed to capture President Obama’s brief moments at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Friday, Feb. 14, 2014 Photo/Darlene Wendels l CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 local media outlets. Feb. 14, 2014 was turning out to be quite an experience as I got the chance to interview people and listen to their varying views of the president’s visit. As I rushed from place to place on the outskirts of the airport, I found myself picturing only the monstrous plane landing on the tarmac. People began arriving by the dozens to witness the historic landing, and all I could think of is how great it would be to finally see the president’s plane hit the ground right before my eyes. At 2:37 p.m., everybody saw what we were waiting for. Though not visible, the president of the United States was inside Air Force One, which, through the thick brown air, was slowly gaining ground and about to make that historic landing in Fresno. MAN OF THE HOUR BY MICHAEL MONROY
Broadcast Manager mmonroy@therampageonline.com
I had been preparing for the president’s arrival days in
advance, servicing my cameras and equipment to make sure they were prepared for any unforeseen events. Professional videographers rushed to get the best spots by placing their camera stands onto a truck in the cage. I rushed past the other media stations to be able to center myself for the perfect shot. I absorbed the mood around me, making me confident that I belonged side by side with the professionals. From the distance, I saw a silhouette in the sky. Around me, the sound of cameras being clicked into their tripods became audible. All at once, the sound of camera shutters and aircraft noise filled my ears. I began to film and slowly panned to capture this momentous event. Air Force One turned the corner and the magnitude of what was happening hit me all at once as the jet filled my camera frame. Air Force One came to a stop and journalists departed from its back entrance as a stair truck approached the plane. I knew that the moment I was wait-
ing for had arrived: President Obama disembarked from the cabin of the plane. I slowly panned and followed him till he boarded Marine One to leave to Firebaugh for a discussion with local growers at the San Luis Reservoir water
So much of the day had been spent waiting. The morning was spent parked on a dirt road outside the airport, waiting for the media entrance to open. The afternoon was spent waiting in the parking lot to be signed in, and standing on the tarmac, in the blazing sun, waiting for the arrival of Air Force One. After the president left for Firebaugh, we had one last round of waiting. After a brief lunch break, we headed back to the parking lot where we had spent so much of our morning. There, sitting on makeshift benches under the only shade in the area, we renewed our vigor and prepared, mentally and physically, for the final stretch of the day’s coverage. Soon, we were back on the tarmac. We claimed our spots against the cool metal of the cage’s walls, and waited. And waited. And waited. We talked and joked about the frenzy of the day, still in partial disbelief that we were even a part of it. We watched as airport security
broke from their austerity only long enough to pose for a picture in front of Air Force One. We took time, our only time that day, to appreciate the magnitude of where we were. Finally, af ter three hours, the sound of choppers overhead snapped everyone to attention. The whole process seemed much more simple the second time around. Despite the initial flurry of cameras and conversation, the presidential jet departed in a cloud of dust before we knew it. Our job was done, and we left the tarmac. We were blistered, sunburned and exhausted. But none of that mattered -- we were members of the White House Press Pool. Jordan Russell
l TWITTER.COM/JCR1015
Katlin Regan
l TWITTER.COM/K_C_REGAN
Patrick Forrest
l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8
Cresencio Rodriguez
l TWITTER.COM/CRES_GUEZ
Jarrett Ramones
l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
Michael Monroy
l TWITTER/MICHAELMONROY
Members of the White House Press Pool run cables to the media risers to prepare for the coverage of Air Force One landing at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Friday, Feb. 14, 2014. Photo/Darlene Wendels
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 02.19.2014
NEWS
5
6
&E
02.19.2014
STUDENT ART REVISITED BY JARRETT RAMONES
Reporter jramones@therampageonline.com
Fresno City College student artist Nicole Plummer holds a photo of her Dr. Seuss-inspired art project featured in art professor Laura West’s spring 2013 showcase. Photo/Alexis Chavez
So much of what art is is reflection; looking back at the generations past and weighing the meaning of that work against one’s own. What does it mean to be significant? How can students hope to measure up to what came before? Is there a distinct direction in which the art of today is aiming for or is aimlessness the hope? Ghosts crowd the halls of significance as present generations hope to squeeze into the shoes of distant giants. According to Fresno City College student artist Nicole Plummer, the artists of the past are not meant to be used to measure one’s own value; they are used as a source of inspiration. A valuable outline that can be used to carve out one’s own future. Plummer said, “We [modern artists] are only able to do everything that we want because of those extremists…I have a lot of respect for that. Its good to learn and know where it all comes from.” Plummer spoke of a desire to create for the sake of creation; that no matter how bleak the surrounding world may appear to be there is always solace in creating. Within this creation-based desire, there appears to be an inherent hope to be remembered for the work produced after death.
Plummer said “I often keep myself awake at night wondering if there will be anything left of what I make or what I’ve done. A lot of people wonder that you know, what’s going to happen when you’re gone?” It appears that this desire is built on the hope of creating a legacy; something that will be left behind that will raise questions about existence and more importantly, force the future to recognize that that artist existed. Plummer said “I like to think that some day in the future when people are uncovering stuff that our civilization [left behind], somewhere in the ground there will be some piece of my art and they will ask ‘what did this mean?’” There is something disheartening and yet uplifting to the hope of being remembered in death. If this hope is the ultimate goal of young artists, can it be said that death is a desire? Or perhaps it’s a fear of death that drives this thinking—a hope that some part of oneself might be taken and made into an iconic myth. Despite this however, Plummer remains hopeful. “I’m just doing what I like to do. I don’t want to be that person who is miserable with their life,” said Plummer. “I want to do something that I like and be happy about it.” l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
Your friendly neighborhood ... Fortress of Fandom
How to Get Started & Survive a Multiverse BY LAUREN BAKER
Arts and Entertainment Editor/Art Director lbaker@therampageonline.com
For anyone that has ever wanted to get into comics but wasn’t sure how to get started, don’t worry, it’s not a scary as you think! The fantastic world of comic books has come a along way since the 1920s when an issue was only ten cents, stories were limited to a very simple narrative and plots included catchphrases like “holy hot-dog Batman!” Today, comics have expanded into a franchise that’s practically taken on a life of its own, from movies to television series and even the popular convention “Comic-Con.” Comic books are just not a medium one can take lightly anymore. You should never walk into a comic-book store and not know what a “multiverse” is. Don’t panic; for a complex topic, there is a simple description. Think of each DC storyline as its own individual universe. Sometimes, within each universe, a story expands and evolves into a story bigger than it initially started out as. In some instances, another universe can develop within an already existing universe. This is a multiverse. A great example would be “The World of Flashpoint.” This is a graphic novel that takes pre-existing DC storylines and spins them into alternate realities, thus creating another universe within a universe. However, “multiverse” can also be a term meant to reference all the different universes between DC and Marvel. Any written or drawn depictions of DC characters co-existing or battling with Marvel characters is a perfect example of this kind of multiverse.
The only thing left to consider is where to start once you’ve chosen a universe to follow. There is no wrong way to go about it, it’s all contingent on how deep you want to go. Maybe you’re not interested in superhero comics at all; maybe you’re just looking for something different to read. Comics come in many different genres, ranging from horror and romance to anime and manga. It’s all up to you as the reader to determine what interests you, half the fun is doing the exploring! It also helps to get yourself acquainted with your local comic book shops and see what they have to offer. Strike up a conversation with the shopkeeper and ask for his or her input, they can probably help you find that undiscovered “gem” of a comic that you’ve been looking for all along. If you’re looking to dive right in, check out “The New 52”, “The Watchmen,” and “Graphic Classics.” l TWITTER.COM/ELBTHEHERO
Graphic/Lauren Baker BY PATRICK FORREST
News Editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
It's completely normal to wonder about where or how you can possibly jump into worlds that have been around for decades and be able to pick up on what's going on. Comic culture has almost never been more welcoming than it is right now, and with just a few easy tips you will be ready to go. First, don't be afraid to start by watching the movies based on comic books. They are enjoyable on their own and can help you find a good story to start with because many of them use the stories told in the comic books as the source material. Use your favorite characters from the movies to let you know which comic book you should go for first. Of course, after you've fallen in love with one, you will begin the process of finding a good storyline out of the many that may be out there to choose from.
“Captain America” for example, has been around for a very long time. You may have no idea how to pick up a story that has been told since the time of Nazi Germany. At the very least, it can be strange. A comic book storyline can get pretty in-depth and you never want to miss a beat. Starting from the beginning is usually good advice for anything, and comic books are no exception. Now if you don't want to sit through a couple of high-quality feature films to get you thinking of a few good character matches, here are some ideas. "Deadpool" has become a bit of a big name, but it is a very strange read for some. He has a tendency to break the fourth wall and speak directly to the reader of his comic, rather than the other characters. If you can get past that, then the "merc with a mouth" is always a great choice for high-quality, lowbrow humor. This is put on display nicely in the "Cable and Deadpool" stories from 2008. Another suggestion would be the "Extremis Iron Man" story. While not as long or as funny as "Cable and Deadpool,” Iron Man is a much more stable character and much easier to follow than Deadpool, so you can have more of a normal reading experience. Though these are not the only options that are out there, from "Iron Man,” "Thor,” "Captain America" to the "Avengers,” it has become clear that the general public does enjoy these stories. Hopefully, you will too.
l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8
02.19.2014
Rogue Festival set to begin
&E
7
BY LAUREN BAKER
Arts and Entertainment Editor/Art Director lbaker@therampageonline.com
It’s that time of year again for Fresno’s biggest and best gathering of artists and musicians local and abroad: the Rogue Festival! The Rogue Festival is well-known for showcasing some of Fresno’s finest artists, musical groups, and comedians for many years. I t is also being known for hosting entertainers from all over the country and even Europe. If you’ve never gone to Rogue, check out the Rogue Festival Teaser show on Feb. 27! This event will showcase previews of some of the most promising acts slated for the festival, as well as give you the opportunity to participate in a silent auction, purchase Rogue merchandise, and participate in the Rogue Scavenger Hunt. The scavenger hunt is scheduled to start directly after the show and lasts until March 8. The Rogue Festival starts Feb. 27 and ends March 8, and will be taking place as usual in the Tower District in a number of designated venues signed up to host shows
and displays. Rogue always encourages audiences to arrive on time to shows as a courtesy to all performers. Arriving on time ensures you don’t miss an act, as not all shows will welcome latecomers. If you plan on attending the Rogue festivities, you should familiarize yourself with the “Rogue-bucks” configuration. Rogue-bucks are the equivalent of cash money; one regular dollar equals one “Rogue-buck” and getting Rogue-bucks is a must as most (but not all) shows require payment via Roguebucks. You can purchase “Rogue-bucks” at the Tower Theater and Livingstones Pub & Restaurant during Festival hours. You can also find a listing of all the performances either online or in their catalogues distributed throughout Tower District. For more information, visit roguefestival.com l TWITTER.COM/ELBTHEHERO
Members of Fresno Dance Collective practice for a Rogue show, ‘’Raw Meat & Dignity,’’ at the Severance Building of California Arts Academy on Sunday, Feb. 17, 2014. Fresno Dance Collective will have its first show on Friday, Feb. 28 at 8:30 p.m. at the Severance Building, 1401 N. Wishon Ave. Photo/Abel Cortez
Rogue Festival Scavenger Hunt Details Your scavenger hunt list can be obtained at “The Rogue Festival Teaser Show” on Feb. 27 The cost to participate is 10 Rogue bucks Activities include finding random items, taking photos, and finding secret places all within historic Tower District
8
OPINION
02.19.2014
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
Is affirmative action fair? PRO
BY LOREN DANIELS
Reporter ldaniels@therampageonline.com
Affirmative action is fair because it recognizes and represents minorities as being at a socio-economic disadvantage, and forces this aspect of minorities to be considered above the majority in the workplace. A 2013 U.S. Supreme Court ruling found in the case of Fisher v. University that it wouldn’t exclude racial preference from being a factor in college admissions. It did rule to raise the college’s standards of their use, though. The court supported in its ruling that if the aim of colleges and universities is to diversify the student body, then the schools should readily embrace the race-neutral vessels necessary to do so. President Kennedy first used the term in 1961 to encourage nondiscrimination during the hiring processes of government employees. Though maybe implicit because of its introduction after a civil war and during a time of controversial racial reconstruction in the country, the fundamental purpose of affirmative action was not centered around issues regarding gender, nationality, or religion. But soon after a war on civil inequalities declared segregation illegal in the United States, “affirmative action” became a principle with a purpose focusing simply on fairness. When you take the black minority, which had just established their equality after having spent centuries being slaves to the white majority, and suddenly place them into the same fields of work as white workers in the competitive workplace, it would seem unfair to not address the issues that would come of measuring blacks by the same standards as whites. Furthermore, it would be highly unfair, after declaring segregation illegal in the states, to not allow a black person the equal opportunities and similar advantages to obtain the status of a white man with similar qualities. In a speech given by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964 - three years after President Kennedy laid the groundwork for affirmative action - Johnson said, “You do not take a person who, for years, has been hobbled by chains and liberate him, bring him up to the starting line of a race, and then say, ‘You are free to compete with
all the others,’ and still justly believe that you have been completely fair.” Critics believe that offering preferential treatment to those people affected by a historical disadvantage is not fair, that affirmative action fails to increase the representation of minorities and women. But statistics prove the opposite; notable success and progress has been seen in racial equality and the inclusion of women in the work force as a result of affirmative action. A report from the U.S. Labor Department concluded that just 50 years after its implementation, affirmative action had helped in the promotion of more than 5 million minorities and 6 million white and minority women in the workplace. Taking affirmative action has only proven to be of significance in addressing these issues of inequality because it shows us the necessity of acknowledging how far we remain from securing equality for all. The U.S. Bureau of the Census reports that in 2010, women averaged earning 77 cents f o r every dollar made b y male e m ploye e s with similar qualit i e s and job duties.
CON
BY PATRICK FORREST
News Editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
Affirmative action has been the basis of much debate over the past few years. It finally got to the Supreme Court of the United States in October 2013. But the regulations known as af f irmative action are actually insulting and lead to more disc r i m i n ation than they ever could possibly hope to stop. One example is that the National Football League has the “Rooney r u l e ,” Graphic/Jarrett Ramones named after NFL The report also concluded that owner Wayne Rooney. black people continued to have twice The rule requires any team atthe unemployment than white people. tempting to fill a head coaching void to Opponents argue that affirma- interview at least one black candidate. tive action could be considered a type At first glance, this rule feels of positive discrimination; that giving like a good idea. With more African an advantage to minorities who were Americans being interviewed, more once enslaved or persecuted people should get hired. in history could, in fact, be seen as a This is a good line of thinking to form of prejudice in itself. use, but did they get those jobs because However, as a nation with the skid- they were the best candidate or because they were given an advantage? marks of a crappy history, whose This is not only a problem in reputation reeks of profits made off the NFL but all over the country. Our of racism and racist propaganda, it government is saying that people of is first our responsibility to progcolor could not succeed if not given ress as a society which offers equal special privileges. And if we continue to allow our opportunity for all citizens. Likewise, any and every measure government to send this message to taken to acknowledge and correct dis- the people of this nation, then we will advantages brought on by discrimi- never be able to move forward to a nation - no matter how futile it may place where people of color are truly appear to be in retrospect - should be treated as equals. Even in a foot race, if you cona standard prioritized for its essential attempt at maintaining equality and tinue to give someone a head start, then the races should be close. But if fairness of all people. after much training the person were l TWITTER.COM/LORENBOBOREN to get faster and faster, the head start
would become a detriment to the public perception. Many would begin to wonder if they had improved at all because they were still receiving the head start to “even the playing field.” When we leave these types of things open for interpretation, then people will take from them what they will. America has a long history of inequality, and the only way we will destroy the perception of inequality is to first destroy all of the caveats that can be used to keep one another separated. If we allow people to use a “but” in connection to someone else’s success, then they will. In July, the American Civil Liberties Union filed a related lawsuit against the State of California alleging discrimination against high school students in low-income and minority neighborhoods. The ACLU charged that schools in affluent areas offered far more advanced placement classes than those in low-income areas, disadvantaging many poor and minority students in college admissions. The lawsuit is still pending. But the ACLU lawsuit shows what the real problem is and why we feel that affirmative action is necessary. The American education system is flawed. As shown by the National Center for Fair and Open Testing, 2013 SAT scores of college-bound seniors had a direct correlation with family income. The poorer you were, the lower you scored. Disparities like this show that income is what grants educational opportunities. And according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s annual report on poverty, income and health insurance, the median income for non-Hispanic White households was $57,009, and it was $33,321 for black households. For Hispanic households, the median income was $39,005. The educational system in this country has put millions of people on a treadmill running towards success. Affirmative action hasn’t and won’t work because while it is great to get black and Hispanic students into college, only certain schools in the most affluent neighborhoods are preparing their students for college. And an unprepared student on a college campus is just being robbed. Affirmative action and legislation like this has its heart in the right place, but the much better way to fix the broken system that we have in America is by giving an even amount of resources to all schools so that every student actually has an equal chance at success. As long as we allow people to differentiate others based on their race, this country will not move forward.
l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 02.19.2014
Campus Voices
“What should the federal government do in response to the drought?”
Deep Singh Agriculture “The government should invest money into more efficient systems like canals and ... drip and microsystems, that’s going to help a lot.”
Chelsea Dreitzer American Sign Language “Probably raise the cost of water so people won’t use as much water anymore, they’ll be like, ‘I don’t want to pay [for] that.’”
Troy Carson Undeclared “I think with all their money that they have over there, they should help us ... [they’ve] got a printable money machine.”
Madison Perkins Undeclared “They should give us the water that they’re sending [to] other places.” WRITTEN BY: KEVYNN GOMEZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY: KEVYNN GOMEZ
OPINION
DROUGHT IS AN ISSUE FOR ALL
9
BY RAMPAGE EDITORIAL BOARD editorial@therampageonline.com
“I want to make sure that every mountain towns accustomed to high Californian knows ... your country is snow levels, the statewide drought going to be there for you when you should still be taken very seriously. need it this year,” President Barack In response to the extreme cirObama said to his audience on farmer cumstances, President Obama and his Joe Del Bosque’s Los Banos farm on administration have created organiFeb. 14. zations such as the National Drought The much-anticipated and high- Resilience Partnership, introduced in ly-reported event was brief, but the November of 2013, that will “help commessage was clear: President Obama munities better prepare for droughts would lead the way in aiding California and reduce the impact of drought and other Western states in finding a events on families and businesses,” solution to the emergency drought. a White House press release states. With rhetoric revolving around Twenty million dollars in fundideas of small-town teamwork, praise ing has also been made available by of Californian ingenuity, and unfal- the United States Department of Agtering nationwide support, Obama’s riculture for farmers, ranchers and words as he stood in this hotspot of American produce we r e b o l d a n d bright. But were they enough? Is any wellrehearsed speech ever enough to provide catharsis to a hurting economy, a devastated agricultural industry and an uninformed public of 38 million people? President Obama’s trip to the Central Valley is an event to be celebrated and praised, yet it should not be the end of the discussion or of concerns on this very pressing topic. On Jan. 17, Gov. Jerry Brown declared a State of Emergency proclamation in regards to the drought. Research shows that water levels are sigGraphic/Lauren Baker & Jarrett Ramones nificantly lower than historical averages. The Millerton Lake reservoir, for example, is filled to only 35 percent capacity despite its historical average being 53 percent, a California Department of Water Resources graph shows. Millerton Lake is no exception; snowpack and river level data show that both of these are below normal levels. While the effects may not seem as damning to those of us who do not live in farming communities or in
other landowners to provide water conservation efforts. The Agricultural Act of 2014 is also providing $100 million in funding as well as establishing a Livestock Forage Disaster Program which will provide monetary compensation to farmers and ranchers that have lost cattle due to drought or fire disasters. The USDA is also granting $60 million to food banks for use in the already-existing Emergency Food Assistance Program.
What more is there to be done? For farming and ranching families, the answer may be unsatisfactory. Yet with the drought only being officially declared an emergency one month ago, the most probable course of action to take now is to simply wait and watch. It can be tempting to blame someone - anyone - in situations where a billion-dollar industry is potentially being toppled, and water and food prices may consequently rise. While the federal government, and the often-criticized Obama administration, are an easy target, Californians and other critics should not stray too far from our geographic boundaries. Local and state governments have struggled for decades to reach agreements on water usage in the Golden State. There lies a complicated and lengthy path ahead of California in a struggle that has not entirely fleshed itself out yet. What is known is that there are still ways to help in a time of crippling drought. “This is going to be a very challenging situation for some time to come,” Obama said, while not forgetting that he was standing in a state forged by hard work and creativity. “We know that we can innovate and meet this challenge, but we’ve got to start now,” he said. “We can’t wait.” California is one of the world’s leaders in innovation, creativity, progress and hard work. Considering the drought as a problem for only the farmers, the ranchers- the “other people”- divides us as a state. Agriculture has been a foundation of California since our ranchero days- it is only fair that we support our greatest triumph even in its hardest times. We may not all be directly affected by the drought just yet, but standing together during such a challenge is what truly epitomizes California and is what will continue to push us to success in the future.
l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
10
OPINION
Welfare recipients should not be drug-tested
02.19.2014
Is there really nothing to do in Fresno?
BY LAUREN BAKER
Arts & Entertainment Editor lbaker@therampageonline.com
Reporter dmartinez@therampageonline.com
Those that receive Calfresh, or food stamps, and cash aid benefits should not be submitted to a drug test as a requirement to receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Testing people would only cost the taxpayers more money and also there are too many governmental welfare branches to try to test every one who’s in some type of temporary assistance program. The Calfresh program is a monthly benefit for low income families to support them with food or cash aid to keep them strong and healthy. Welfare programs started in the 1930s during the Great Depression. These programs were created by the U.S. government to provide aid to those in need or who had no income. It stayed in control of the federal government for 61 years and then it was passed to the states. During the Great Depression, Americans were not happy, stating that people were abusing the system and were not applying for work to remain on welfare benefits. As of today, there are some Americans who feel the same, and say they shouldn’t be taxed to support programs for people who don’t wish to work. Many people continue to argue about drug testing them. If as taxpayers you want to save money, testing every resident would cost the state thousands of dollars more just to catch one drug abuser, according to an article “Should Welfare Recipients Be Drug Tested” by Jonathan Walters. There are many state programs: Women, Infants and Children, for food and nutritional services for pregnant women and children under 5 years of age; Medi-Cal, for health insurance; Calfresh, for food stamps; Cash Aid, for cash money; Section 8, for housing vouchers; and Supportive Services for child care
If you’re one of the countless young Fresnans consistently complaining that there is nothing to do that you haven’t done before, get ready to think again. While I certainly find those “Fresno memes” on Facebook amusing because there’s a certain ring of truth to them, I do not think our city is all that bad at all, it just depends on what you’re looking for. The range of interests and hobbies amongst your average group of college students can be more than broad, so to speak. So many of us have so little time for leisure as it is from committing ourselves to the books and dreams that can only come as a result of a higher education. So when we do have time, most of us revert to our own tried-and-true acassistance. These are some of many that fall into the welfare category. Testing only those who receive food stamps or cash aid wouldn’t make sense not to drug test the rest. I can’t agree with anyone who says that once you used drugs you can’t stop. How about those who never used and suddenly start using them? Testing them once won’t mean they will remain clean. Plus, it’s not like people in need could become wealthy through these programs. Would it make any sense to drug test a 24-yearold with four kids and not a 85-year-old receiving cash aid and Medicare? There’s really no difference, the funds all come from the same grants. Many people assume that people who live partially or completely on welfare programs live in poverty areas. According to a New York Times article “Poverty in America Is Mainstream,” those living in poverty at some point use food stamps. But there are statistics that people who receive any TANF benefits do use those benefits for what it assigned. After president Clinton signed the welfare reform, people are looking for work and don’t stay on welfare more than 5 years, according to the reform law. If there are people who cheat the system, drug testing them will not solve the problem, neither would it save taxpayers money. So why test them? l TWITTER.COM/FLOWERDAZY
tivities due to a lack of a desire to “think outside of the box” because it’s the easier thing to do. So why not challenge yourself to try something new? I’m willing to bet that if it were Friday night and a friend wanted to hang out with you, you’re either going to go to Riverpark or Tower District. Granted, both are excellent for entertainment purposes, as both offer a variety of shops and restaurants to enjoy. Why not try places you haven’t been to before? Instead of going to Edwards Cinema 22 and Me-N-Ed’s Coney Island Grill this weekend, try a picnic outing at Millerton Lake! Since this has been one of the warmest winter seasons in Fresno County, having a lakeside picnic isn’t all that unorthodox. On Feb. 22, the Old Town Clovis Farmers Market will be going on, and what could be better than having some of the finest locally-grown produce our valley has to offer for a picnic? Sometimes in our age of modern technology and overdriven work ethics, we forget to slow down and invest in wholesome quality time among friends and family, and this can be a wonderful opportunity to do so. Most people think of two things when they hear the name “Tower District”: bars and the music scene. While these are definitely elements
of this neighborhood, there is certainly more to it than meets the eye. Tower is also well known for its art scene and unique shops. But more often than not, most young people overlook and take for granted the very landmark that gave the district its namesake: the Tower Theater. There is always a live show or a film of some kind being shown there, and you could be missing out on an experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. While it is not your typical theater that shows new-age films like “Iron Man” or “Twilight,” it does show live plays, musicals and documentaries. Tower Theater often houses the Fresno Filmworks events as well. They will be screening “The Invisible Woman” March 14 at 5:30 p.m. Part of the fun of trying something new is going out and discovering it! Fresno is a breadbasket of unique people and places to see, and we’re lucky to be in the comfortable center of bigname cities in California with everything at our disposal. Take advantage of it! And don’t forget, if Obama thought we were worth visiting, we must be pretty special.
l TWITTER.COM/ELBTHEHERO
Where preparing to return to the workforce balances with
“I have two young kids.”
© 2014 National University 13818
BY DAISY MARTINEZ
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
• • • •
Students can transfer at any time Transfer scholarships are available One-course-per-month format 28 campuses plus online programs
Learn more at nu.edu/transfer
Fresno Campus 20 E. River Park Place West NU14_13818-07_CC_PrintAd_Fresno_5p9327x8p5_K.indd 1
Where quality meets flexibility™
(855) 355-6288 1/24/14 11:03 AM
SPORTS
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 02.19.2014
ASHANTI: BIG MAN ON CAMPUS
BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
Chris Ashanti is one of the most dynamic guard in the Central Valley Conference, averaging 15 points per game, and 5.6 rebounds a game. He is one of the leaders of this years FCC men’s basketball team. They are No. 2 in the state and 25-2, 8-1 in CVC. He is being recruited by Idaho State, along with other schools.
Q.
Where were you born? When did you graduate? Where did you go to high-school? I’m from Compton .California, LA Jordan High School, graduated in 2010. How long have you been playing basketball?
A.
Q.
A. Q.
I started playing .basketball at the age of 5 or 6. Did someone introduce you to basketball? What made you want to play? My older brother played basketball, so I followed in his footsteps. He was real tough on me, always on me about the game, and I was used to playing against older guys. From that time I just fell in love with the sport. What or who is your biggest inspiration in your life? My mother
A.
Q. A. Q. A.
What is your favorite quote or motto for your life? Passion. I play with alot of passion. l TWITTER.COM/SLOCUM13
Sports Schedule
11
Men’s Basketball
Feb 19 vs. Columbia Feb 22 vs. Merced
Chris Ashanti of the Fresno City College men’s basketball team on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2014. Ashanti is currently ranked No. 2 in the Central Valley Conference for scoring an average of 15.1 points per game. Photo/Abel Cortez
Women’s Basketball
Baseball
Softball
Feb 22 @ Taft
Fen 19 @ West Hills Feb 20 @ West Hills Feb 22 @ West Hills Feb 25 @ Reedley Feb 27 @ Reedley March 1 @ Reedley
Feb 22 @ Cosumnes River San Mateo March 1 & 2 Fresno City Tournament
senior Airman
dAvid Anderson
time spent in the Air GuArd eAch month:
94%
GrAde on lAst bioloGy exAm
6%
free time spent with Girlfriend:
85% 100%
pride in servinG his country
Experience the pride of serving your country while getting money for college – serving part-time in the Air National Guard. Talk to a recruiter today.
13114 ANG CA 144th MP Print_10x8in.indd 1
8/7/13 11:03 AM
12
SPORTS
TOUCHDOWN
02.19.2014
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
FCC football players sign to big universities
Fresno City College football players Nate Palomino, Lafaele Fautanu, Josh Gibbs and Thomas Coronado hold their letters of intent to their transfer schools, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2014. Photo/Darlene Wendels BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
Seven Fresno City College football players signed their letters of intent and committed to Division I FBS (New Mexico State, Cal Poly, Indiana State, and San Diego State) schools and Division 1 FCS (Eastern Illinois and Southern Utah) on Feb. 5. The day marked the
beginning of the national signing day period for high schools and community colleges to move players to play at to play at big-time NCAA universities. The players making the jump include members of both the defensive and offensive sides of the ball. These players played a major part in helping FCC to an 7-4 record and a No. 5 Nor-
Cal ranking during this past season. Defensive lineman Thomas Coronado and Josh Gibbs will be attending Eastern Illinois and New Mexico State, respectively. “The recruiting process was slow at the beginning, but it picked up as the season went along. I feel like I made the right decision. It going to help that coach [Kerry] Locklin is going to be there, I feel like
I’ll have a leg up on the competition when I get there,” said Gibbs Gibbs finished with 34 tackles, five sacks, 10.5 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles on the season. Coronado ended the season with 55 tackles, 10 sacks, 13 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble. Both players were California Community College All-Region I and First Team
All-North Division Valley Conference. Coronado ranking second in the conference with 10 sacks. Linebacker Nate Palomino signed with Cal Poly. “It’s a good school, it’s close to home [and] family and friends can come for games. All in all, these coaches have helped prepare me for the next level, so the transition to my next school will be easy,” said Palomino. Tight end Lafaele Fautanu signed with Illinois State. Fautanu tore his ACL in week 6, in a game against Santa Rosa. But the coaches at Illinois State visited after his surgery and he was still given an offer because the coaches loved his work ethic and dedication to the game. Fautanu will be ready to play in the Fall of 2014, and is not concerned that his injury will stop him. “They have a great facility, which will help me with my recovery,” he said. Gibbs, Coronado, Palomino and Fautanu joined three other Rams who were mid-year transfers: offensive lineman Patrick Markarian (Indiana State) and Wylie Brand (Southern Utah) and Fullback Dakota Gordon (San Diego State). They’ve all enrolled at their respective schools, and look to represent FCC football proudly. “Well we’re just so proud of the work these guys have put in to play for us, and to be a part of our program for two years. Individuals who will remembered he for many years to come,” said FCC Head Football Coach Tony Caviglia. “We’re really excited for them. For them to continue to get their education and play football, that’s what we’re all about here at FCC.” l TWITTER.COM/SLOCUM13
Moving forward
from New Mexico State? I thought it was well-disciplined. I love the coach, and his style of play. How has the recruiting process been for you? The process has been great. I’ve gotten a number of schools calling me. I don’t know which one I want to go to. I’d like to go to Fresno State but, there are other schools in the mix as well. How has Coach Tessler helped you become a better player? He has made me a better person, on and off the court. After last
A.
Q. A.
Fresno City College women’s basketball player Keyora Wharry encourages teammates from the sidelines during a game against Porterville College in the FCC Gymnasium, Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2014. Photo/Darlene Wendels She had signed there out of with 127 steals and 44 blocks at BY KEAUNDREY CLARK Sports Editor Edison High School in 2011. her time here playing for the kclark@therampageonline.com Wharry is one of the most rams. She has shot an astoundKeyora Wharry came dominant guards in recent ing 50 percent from the field. to Fresno City College after history for FCC, she has for What did you think a knee injury forced her to her career here, 1,040 points of FCC women’s transfer back to Fresno from scored, 628 rebounds. She has basketball, when you first New Mexico State university. become an all-around player, stepped on campus coming
Q.
Northern California Baseball Rankings
1 Sierra College
2 College of San Mateo
Q. A.
3 Sacramento City College
season, when we lost in the playoffs, Coach was helping me with my form in shooting. Every day he would call and ask if I wanted to workout. He definitely has helped a lot. Coming from New Mexico, what’s one part of your game you’ve improved on? Seeing the f loor. I can see passing lanes better, which helps me get the ball to my teammates What schools aer interested in you?
Q.
A.
Q. A.
Fresno State, Hawaii and some others. I’d love to stay home and play for Fresno State.
4 Shasta College
l TWITTER.COM/SLOCUM13
5 Fresno City College