Rampage The
FCC STUDENT DIES FROM STAB WOUND l SEE STUDENT STABBED ON PAGE 4
The Student-Run Newspaper of Fresno City College
October 15, 2014
Vol. CXXVI
ISSUE 4
FREE
TRUSTEE UNDER FIRE
Eric Payne compares allegations against him to the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr.
n Trustee Payne inappropriately pressured the Reedley College President and Dean of Aug. 2012 Instruction to select a particular candidate that he preferred for a faculty coordinator Eric Payne elected as Trustee position,in violation of District hiring policies, The search and selection process Area 2 representative. for that position thereafter had to be aborted clue to his improper interference, May 1, 2014 setting back the hiring of a key position on campus by several months. Interim Chancellor Bill F. n Trustee Payne made public comments claiming personal responsibility for the Stewart calls for investigation hiring of a Reedley College dean, suggesting (without basis) that he interfered on potential misconduct in the established hiring procedures and exerted improper influence to hire the against Trustee Eric Payne. dean for reasons other than merit. n Trustee Payne requested that a college administrator use her Sept. 26, 2014 official position to help him solicit campaign funds. Interim Chancellor n Trustee Payne unilaterally contacted the college sends a memorandum accrediting body and made a misleading and to Patrick Patterson, president of the baseless report of a potential accreditation SCCCD Board of concern. Trustees, requesting n Trustee Payne published an opinion column that the board look in the local newspaper that was substantially into allegations plagiarized from other sources. against Payne. n Trustee Payne committed the misdemeanor crime of misuse of a Oct. 7, 2014 disability vehicle placard by using a Allegations of misconduct placard that had been reported as stolen publicly announced at the to park in a disabled parking spot during Board of trustees meeting; members vote 5-1 with one a Board meeting. He was cited, booked, and SCCCD Trusteee Eric Payne faces allegations of misconduct detailed abstaining to investigate released by the district police department, and in a memo written by the interim chancellor and addressed to the further. charged by the Fresno county district attorney. president of the board of trustees. Photo/Twitter.com BY PATRICK FORREST
News editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
State Center Community College District Board of Trustee voted on Oct. 7 to investigate allegations of misconduct against Trustee Eric Payne during its meeting at the Madera Community College Center. Five of the trustees voted to appoint a committee look into the accusations detailed in a Sept. 26 memorandum by SCCCD Chancellor Bill Stew-
l SEE CHEERLEADING ON PAGE 11
POLLS VIDEOS
art. Payne voted against proceeding with the investigation while Trustee John Leal abstained. Trustees Nishanaka, Leal and Caglia all expressed interest in being a part of the ad hoc committee, tasked with investigating Payne. According to an Oct. 7 story in the Fresno Bee, Payne compared the allegations against him to the assassina-
l SEE BATTLE OF THE PUMP ON PAGE 11
tion of Martin Luther King, Jr. in a “long, heated” statement. The Bee also reported that Payne described himself as a “young man of color” whose “character is being assassinated in the public square.” Payne also said the allegations amounted to a “witch hunt” because he exercised his free speech and asked tough questions. The allegations against
Payne were brought to the board’s attention by Chancellor Bill Stewart, who originally led the investigation since May 1, 2014. They include inappropriately pressuring the Reedley College president and dean of instruction to choose Payne’s preferred candidate for a faculty coordinator position; plagiarizing an opinion article in the Fresno Bee which they
l SEE FAIR ON PAGE 8
have since removed from their site; misusing a disability vehicle placard in August 2013; requesting a college administrator to help him solicit funds, and contacting the college accrediting body to make “misleading and baseless” reports of potential accredita-
l SEE ERIC PAYNE INVESTIGATION ON PAGE 3
l SEE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA ON PAGE 6
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
PHOTOS STORIES
2
NEWS
10.15.2014 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
DISTRICT UNSURE ABOUT FOUR YEAR DEGREE OFFERINGS BY CRESENCIO RODRIGEZ DELGADO Multimedia Editor crodriguezdelgado@therampageonline.com
State Center Community College District has not determined if it will participate in the pilot program allowing community colleges to offer bachelor degrees. Interim Chancellor, Bill Stewart, says that the applications and interest forms will not be out for another two months, and at that time, “we will take a look at it and determine.” Stewart said that a baccalaureate degree program in nursing would be a natural pick for the district, but the nursing baccalaureate degree program at Fresno State would make it difficult for that program to be offered at Fresno City College. “The bill [SB 850] kind of specifically precludes you from offering anything that [other universities] offer,” said Stewart. The pilot program, SB 850, will allow for no more than 15 community college districts in California to offer their very own baccalaureate degree. “Community colleges can help fill the gaps in our higher education system by granting baccalaureate degrees in a limited number of areas in order to meet a growing demand for a skilled workforce.” The bill signed into law on Sept. 28, 2014 by Gov. Jerry Brown contains language about allowing community colleges to “produce more professionals in health, biotechnology, public safety and other needed fields.” Fresno City College President, Tony Cantu says there would be no English or history degrees offered. “It doesn’t mean degrees in English or history or any of that,” Cantu said, “It’s not a matter of doing degrees that are already offered by the local CSU; they’re called applied bachelor’s degrees.” Cantu said the college and the district are currently exploring their options and analyzing the cost, need and
staffing aspects of taking part in this program. Any district taking part in the program, according to the bill, should “have expertise, resources and student interest to offer a quality baccalaureate degree in the chosen field of study.” The bill also states that districts taking part in the program would offer a baccalaureate degree in a subject area with unmet workforce needs in the local community or region of the district. The baccalaureate degree pilot program instruction will commence at the beginning of the 2017-18 school year and would require students to complete their degree by the 2022-23 school year. Existing law requires community colleges in the state to offer instruction through the second year of college and to grant associate or transfer degrees. This new bill would allow for community colleges, in consultation with California State University and University of California, to establish one baccalaureate degree. “It’s going to be difficult for us because we have [a university] right in our backyard,” said Kathy Bonilla, public information officer at FCC. The reason for consulting with the CSUs and UCs, is so that the curricula of the baccalaureate degree program that is chosen by any district is not similar to those already offered at a university, according to the bill. Fresno State offers many bachelor degrees which makes it difficult for any other type of bachelor degree to be offered at FCC and still stay within the guidelines of SB 850. Twenty one states already allow their community colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees. l TWITTER.COM/CRES_GUEZ
Community Colleges to Train Workers Displaced by Drought BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ DELGADO Multimedia editor crodriguezdelgado@therampageonline.com
Six community colleges throughout the Central Valley will soon offer training classes, at no cost, to valley residents displaced by the drought. Fresno City College’s Career and Technology Center at Jensen and Annandale avenues in Southeast Fresno will be one of the locations where vocational training classes will be made available primarily for farm workers who are, or will be left unemployed. Public information officer at FCC, Kathy Bonilla said some classes are already in place at FCC’s Career and Technology Center. Those classes include forklift driving and warehouse technician training.
“Those two particular programs are the ones we’re looking at right now to modify and to make adjustments to help these people depending on what their needs are,” Bonilla said. FCC’s Dean of Workforce Development, Natalie Culver-Dockins said there would likely be an English as a Second Language component to those classes according to an article published by the Business Journal. Reedley College, College of the Sequoias in Visalia, Merced College, West Hills College and Modesto College will all take part in the free classes Funding for these classes will come directly from The California Labor and Workforce Development Agency, The Employment Training Panel and the California Community College Chancellor’s Office.
l TWITTER.COM/CRES_GUEZ
CORRECTIONS There was inaccurate information provided in the article Change in Disbursement by Yolanda Bird in the Sept. 17, 2014 issue of the Rampage. The article inaccurately stated that “The date for the second disbursement for the financial aid grant has been changed from Oct. 9 to Oct. 30 according to the latest update on the student disbursement calendar.” There was no change in the disbursement date. Oct. 9 is a makeup disbursement date for students who enrolled late or turned financial aid paperwork in late. Oct. 30 is still the second Pell Grant disbursement date. The article also inaccurately stated that “However, those dates have changed at times during the semester going from days to whole weeks from the original disbursement date.” In the last three academic years, there has only been one date change in the summer of 2014 due to Datatel being unavailable. Also, the article provided a student quote that stated “The date change was a late notice, so I could not budget my funds properly.” There was not a late notice as there was no notice of all related to a change as it did not occur. -Kira Tippins, Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships
Rampage Staff Production Manager Patrick Forrest
Photo Editor Desiree Aranjo
News Editor Patrick Forrest
Art Director Jarrett Ramones
Opinion Editor Jarrett Ramones
Copy Chief Yolanda Garzon
Arts & Entertainment Editor Yolanda Garzon
Multimedia Editor Cresencio Rodriguez
Sports Editor Keaundrey Clark
Business Manager Ramiro Gudino
Journalism Association of Community Colleges
Reporters Lauren Barnett Yolanda Bird David Chavez Brijido Cisneros Alyssa Garza Julian Ramos Max Reagan Jasmine Yoro Javier Hernandez Photojournalists Katia Farias Gloria Campos
Faculty Adviser Dympna Ugwu-Oju Contact Us Tip Line: 559.442.8262 Send Questions or Letters to the Editor to: editorial@therampageonline.com
TheRampageOnline.com
Fresno City College
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 10.15.2014
NEWS
3
ERIC PAYNE INVESTIGATION l CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
tion concerns. In a memo dated May 1, 2014 and addressed to Patrick Patterson, president of the board of trustees, Diane Clerou, associate vice chancellor for human resources and Gregory Taylor, general counsel detailed a litany of accusations against Payne from district employees . The letter mentioned three instances of Payne contacting “non-executive administrators” and “attempted to direct or influence their work.” Payne is
accused of “rude and threatening” behavior by the chancellor’s office staff. However, the report by Clerou and Taylor concluded that while the conduct raises concerns, there is “no evidence of harassment or discrimination” and that the events “do not constitute violations of the law.” “At the meeting [Oct. 7, 2014] the board took action,” Ruiz said. “They have the option to bring in an outside investigator to help with that process, and I believe that that is what they will
do.” The investigation against Payne however, can only end with a limited number of actions from the Board. According to Board of Trustees policy 2517, if found to have committed the policy violations, they may either release a statement condemning his action, or censure him, which would effectively make it so that he could not do these or any actions similar to these in the future. “Administration has presented all
information relevant to these matters to the board; it believes this information to be accurate and correct,” said Lucy Ruiz, SCCCD interim executive director of public & legislative relations. “It is up to the board of trustees to conduct its investigation and decide what action it will take.” To this point Trustee Payne has not been able to be reached for comment. l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8
The article below was published by the Fresno Bee on Sept. 12, 2014 and evidence shows that parts of this was plagiarized from other sources
FRESNO MILLENIALS LEAD CHARGE FOR CHANGE
Getting young people to run for political office is a tough sell, but some 20- and 30-something politicians across the Valley are bucking the trend. They are the Millennials -- between the ages 18-35. And the Millennials, also known as the Net Generation and Generation Y, are a generation like no other. With their love of technology, social networking, collaboration, innovation and “Yes We Can!” attitude, Millennials are forcing established systems, be it education, the workplace or corporate America, to take them seriously; to re-evaluate how they do business in order to accommodate what is the first digital generation in recorded history. Millennials are America’s most civic-oriented generation, since their GI Generation great-grandparents. They believe in collective, local, direct action to solve their community’s cnad the nation’s problems. The challenge is it’s very, very hard to get young people to run for office. We’re a generation shaped heavily by 9/11 and the huge economic recession, and so our political system hasn’t always really been there to support us. Millennials may be hesitant to get involved in politics because they generally dislike conflict and gridlock. They’re doers and they believe in solutions. Fresno has had a bad habit of reaching back in order to go forward. We haven’t demonstrated a lot of willingness to bring new people into public spaces -- fresher faces don’t always get an opportunity to lead. If we are trying to become a community that looks for reform bad politics that have crippled our local economics and turn back the tide and look to the future, we’ve got to do a better job at building a pipeline of young leaders. However, a community of young politician is nevertheless growing in the Valley. For example, two high-profile candidates are Millennial Esmeralda Soria, an educator/attorney running for District 1 Fresno City Council and Millennial Miguel Arias, an executive director running for State Center Community College District Trustee Area 6. These political mavericks are not new to Fresno politics. Arias is a former chief of staff for Council Member Blong Xiong and Soria a former state Senate district director for Michael Rubio. There are also the young politicos who have already taken the main stage. State Assemblymember Henry Perea, who has championed our state’s water bond, Fresno Unified School District board member Luis Chavez, who has tackled restorative justice in our schools, and Fresno City Council Member Clint Olivier, who carried the Ethics of Fresno Act cracking down on human trafficking, all who are part of a group of young office holders working across party lines. They swap stories, share challenges and discuss opportunities in how to make our community a better place to live. “We face the same hurdles. We hear the same jokes from our older counterparts who look at us once and say, ‘I have shoes older than you,’ and I say, “It’s time for a new pair of shoes.’” So why does this all matter? We’re creating a change. There leaders also provide a glimpse into the future of American democracy, since more than one out of three adult Americans will be members of this generation by the end of this decade. Rather than waiting for Millennials to stage a hostile takeover of our democratic processes, those in power today should proactively seek to accelerate the transition from a governmental and political process that is at historical low levels of public trust to a democracy that is in line with the vision and ideas of America’s next great generation. We understand the real-life consequences of decisions that are made by policymakers, and it’s time to make room at the table for Fresno’s Millennial leaders who are leading the charge for change. Eric Payne is a State Center Community College District trustee. Bolded text represents sections that evidence indicates were plagiarized.
4
NEWS
Campus Briefs
10.15.2014 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
EQUITY PLAN INCREASES ACCESS FOR DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ DELGADO Multimedia Editor crodriguezdelgado@therampageonline.com
Desmend Rios. Photo/Fresno Bee Obituaries
Student stabbed BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
Fresno City College student Desmond Rois, 19, was killed at a party in southeast Fresno on Sept. 28. His death was part of a triple-stabbing that happened at a party located near the intersection of Central & Fowler. After an investigation Fresno Police Department located a suspect, 21 year old Anthony Lopez. The oldest of nine chil-
dren, Rios was a quiet kid who enjoyed being with is family. In an obituary from the Fresno Bee published, Oct. 5, “Death leaves us heartaches which no one can heal, but love leaves us a memory, no one can steal” He is survived by his parents, Samuel Lopez and Marina Rios, brothers, sisters and grandparents.
George Akina. Photo/Fresno City College Public Information
Financial aid assistant dead BY JULIAN RAMOS
Reporter jramos@therampageonline.com
George Akina, Office Assistant III in the Financial Aid Office, who was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, passed away on Friday, Oct. 10 at the age of 63. Akina began working at Fresno City College in November of 2011. Outside of helping the students at Fresno City College, he was a performer, with a love for singing and acting. He also appeared in numerous productions in Fresno. The last role he starred in was the King in the musical “The
King and I” at Roger Rocka’s this past year. Akina spent much of the last year of his life on stage, appearing with Good Company Players in “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Shrek” and — in a witty, heartfelt and beautifully crafted performance — the King in “The King and I,” which closed on May 16. Akina’s memorial service will be held on Monday, Oct. 20 at 6 p.m. at North Fresno Church located at 5724 N. Fresno St.
The deadline for Fresno City College’s student equity plan has been moved from the third week of October to January, accoeding to Tony Cantu, president of the college. The plan is now being reviewed by a subcommittee. Cantu said the plan includes strategies for student success, quality and access -- the areas the college will work on to improve student success and retention rates. “The student equity plan has to do with access,” Cantu said. “It has to do with students transitioning from ESL and basic skills, and then it has to do with certificate and degree completion.” State Center Community College District Interim Chancellor, Bill Stewart, said that all the campus sites within the district -- FCC, Clovis Community College, Reedley College and the Madera Center -- will all be producing equity plans. Stewart said that specialized programs at the district’s campuses also help in bridging the success gap between different groups of students and that every student deserves to be helped. The California Community Colleges Board of Governors adopted a student equity policy, in 1992, in order to ensure that groups that are historically underrepresented in higher education have an equal opportunity in access, success and transfer. Perry Angle, director of the TRIO Program at FCC, said he believes that the student equity plan is very important because of the diverse backgrounds from which many students come. Angle said students who
are undocumented or come from low-income or minority backgrounds are at a much higher disadvantage when it comes to access. “To understand student equity, you must be familiar with the various forms of inequity,” Angle said, “our program targets socioeconomic inequity; simply put, low-income students have more barriers to overcome than more fortunate students.” Angle said that the chance of these students staying in college or graduating is much higher when they do have a support system in place. He says due to the strong relationship between students and TRIO faculty, students are comfortable seeking help when they need it most. “When they are just about on the brink of dropping out, they come to us first,” Angle said. Mayflower Moua, a former student in the United Southeast Asian-Americans Program said being in such a program helped her meet her academic goals. “Being surrounded with [other Southeast Asian-American students] is indeed helpful because you’re all doing the same work,” Moua said. “And you’re all from the same background somewhat, so you kind of understand what’s going on.” Victor Yang, instructor and coordinator of USEAA, said that for students in the program it is the bridge between community college and a four year school. He said Asian-American students often do not have a strong support system at home due to their background. “Many of their parents are
not [college graduates], so when you talk about choosing a major and they don’t have anyone to model after, it would be difficult,” Yang said. Yang hopes that the services offered by the program help integrate students in a different level where they will make better informed decisions. May Vang, a counselor and instructor for USEAA, said that students in the program take English 125 and 126 in a cohort, along with a counseling 53 course. She said while the students still learn the same rigorous content of the type of class, they so so in a more interesting way. “It gives them the opportunity to learn about their own history, identify with it and meet the rigorous content of what it takes to finish college,” Vang said, “but in literature that they’re interested and familiar with.” The SCCCD chancellor said, he believes the colleges should reflect the communities as far as equity and assured that students will begin to see a real difference soon. “Next fall, you ought to see a real difference and a real measurable difference,” Stewart said, “and we ought to be held accountable to do that.” Stewart said that students who are not receiving the support that many others receive, often feel discouraged and many times end up quitting college. “It’s really hard for them to stick around, people just don’t,” Stewart said. “And then all of a sudden, they’re gone, and we have another statistic.” l TWITTER.COM/CRES_GUEZ
10.15.2014
&E
5
Fresno Fair ‘Rides’ Again
The Big Fresno Fair came complete with food, rides and shows for all ages. This year, the historic Paul Paul Theater featured classic rock band REO Speedwagon (right). Fair goers were thrilled by performances at the Pavilion Stage featuring hypnotist, Tina Marie. Food stands offered all sorts of eats such as chicken kabobs (below), garlic fries, funnel cakes, turkey legs, barbecue pork ribs and more. Rides were all provided by Butler Amusements and featured a giant ferris wheel (left), giant slides and rides with thrills. Photos/Desiree Aranjo
5
10.15.2014 &E Community Orchestra Inspires BY BRIJIDO CISNEROS
Reporter bcisneros@therampageonline.com
The Fresno City College Community Symphony Orchestra offered an exuberated performance in the Old Administration Building auditorium on Oct. 7. The symphony orchestra members includes FCC students and is conducted by FCC instructor, Jeffrey T. Sandersier. The concert began at 7 p.m. with the orchestra performing three pieces -- Felix Mendelssohn’s “Athalia- Overture Op. 74,” Franz Joseph Haydn’s “Symphony No. 96 d Major, ‘Miracle’,” and Antonin Dvorak’s “Symphony No. 7 D Minor, Op. 70.” Mendelssohn’s “AthaliaOverture, Op. 74” set the pace for the concert. With John Morrice as concertmaster leading first violin -- the piece filled the room with notes from the shifting strings and strong tones from the wind instruments. Haydn’s “Symphony No. 96 d Major” was a four-sectioned work that ultimately had great rhythm and flow. The sounds from the violins, trumpets, bass, viola, flutes, oboes, clarinet, bassoons, horn, timpani, trombone and trumpet all correlated to pro-
duce a wonderful rendition that flowed piece to piece. Following a quick intermission, the orchestra performed Dvorak’s “Symphony No. 7 D Minor, Op. 70,” another four-piece work. The ensemble did this work justice. The piece held a substantial amount of weight; the crescendos echoed throughout the auditorium and created deposits of exquisite texture and figurative color. “I like the idea of all the instruments producing different sounds and how they create this mixture of emotions,” said Marina Ortega, student and musician at FCC. “It’s inspiring, it’s almost like a movie because all of the music playing so loudly.” “The orchestra group is a combination of students majoring in music, retired musicians and others who do it for fun,” said Stan Semrau, FCC student on Violin 1. The members work diligently to produce this great performance, each drawn to the orchestra for different reasons.
l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
Michael McLane, violoncellist, practicing before the performance on Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2014. Photo/Gloria Campos.
10.15.2014
‘Warcraft’ and ‘Warlords’ BY JASMINE YORO
Reporter jyoro@therampageonline.com
Prepare to be blasted back in time as Azeroth is faced with the Iron Horde in the fifth “World of Warcraft” expansion, “Warlords of Draenor” to be released on Nov. 13, 2014. Blizzard Entertainment’s “World of Warcraft” is a massive multiplayer online role playing game that was first released in 2004 to continue the original real time strategy series “Warcraft”. In the original games, players controlled armies to battle against other player’s armies or a computercontrolled army. In “WoW”, players take on the role of individual members of two playable factions; the Horde and the Alliance. Players join a faction, each with its own unique fantasy races and classes. Azeroth, the in-game world, is made up of four continents; the Eastern Kingdoms, Kalimdor, Northrend and Pandaria. Each race has their own starting area and capital city in one of these continents, most are faction specific. The computer exclusive game has used the same graphics style since its original release and is still more successful than similar games that are even console compatible. Each expansion advances the new story content and occasionally introduce new player options. In 2007, “The Burning Crusade” introduced a new a new unique race for each faction, raised the characters’ maximum level from 60 to 70, opened the Northrend
continent and the world Outland for players and flying mounts for players to use while questing. The second expansion, the “Wrath of the Lich King” (2008) raised the level cap to 80 and introduced the Death Knights, a powerful class available to both factions. “Cataclysm”, 2010’s expansion, raised the cap to 85, added new skill sets and debuted the guild level system which enhanced the community environment and offered new challenges. “Mists of Pandaria”, 2012, introduced the only race playable by both factions, a level 90 cap and the continent of Pandaria. Warlords’ story follows the previous expansion, where an infamous Orc leader escapes and travels back in time to the Orc homeworld prior to the rise of the Horde. The time travel aspects of “WoD” will not affect realtime Azeroth, but the new area no longer exists in the present. Players can access the continent Draenor is by traveling through a portal that takes them 35 years back in time. “Warlords of Draenor” will raise the cap to 100, personal player housing is being introduced and the long awaited player character model updates for most races. Alina Martinez, FCC student, is excited for “the storyline, new raids, new dungeons”. The long time player says that no “flying mounts” in Draenor and “guild levels being taken away” are what she is least looking forward to as she believes that it “takes away challenges.” “WoW” isn’t the only MMO on the market. Competition includes games
&E
based on other popular franchises such as “Star Wars” and “Lord of the Rings”. Others have a free-to-play or freemium payment models that allow players to only pay for optional content, a much more affordable model compared to “WoW”’s $15 monthly subscription. Despite some unpopular changes introduced by expansions and a subscriber decline over the past few years, Blizzard has kept the franchise relevant since the ‘90s as it still reigns as the number one MMORPG. Blizzard also has a handful of other respectable games, such as WoW strategy card game “Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft”, hack and slash series “Diablo” and the sci-fi series “Starcraft”. They will also be releasing a “World of Warcraft” movie, it is currently in post-production and predicted to be released in March 2016. Many celebrities are known to play “World of Warcraft” and some appeared in the game’s commercials, such as Ozzy Osbourne, Mr T, Verne Troyer, Chuck Norris and Mila Kunis. Robin Williams was also a “WoW” player and, in tribute, Blizzard put an interactive lamp that players can rub to make a genie pop out,
6
referencing Disney’s “Aladdin” in the “WoD” beta, and an egg with broken machinery, in reference to “Mork and Mindy”, will be included after the expansion’s release. Head to www.battle.net/wow for more information. Lok’tar ogar!
8
OPINION
10.15.2014 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
TERROR ON THE HOMEFRONT! Stateside Ebola Hysteria BY THE RAMPAGE EDITORIAL BOARD
Ebola is not the worst virus of all time, it's not even going to be the worst disease this season. As far as we are concerned, here in the United States, there is no reason for it to be our number one concern. The Ebola virus has been taking the world by storm, but it really isn't as big of a threat as many have been making it out to be. While Ebola is contagious,
“...there is no reason for it (ebola) to be our number one concern.”
there needs to be an understanding of exactly how it can be contracted. Only through direct contact with bodily fluids is the virus spread. That is why the virus has been spread through the health officials tasked with assisting the already ill. The virus can also not be spread unless the infected party is actively showing symptoms at the time. The disease is not like the cold, which is highly infectious and can infect many from just one host. Center
for Disease Control statistics indicate, that of close family and caretakers of the infected only 1/7 will contract the virus from those already infected. The 800-plus deaths from Ebola in Africa so far this year are indisputably tragic, but it is important to keep a sense of proportion–other infectious diseases are far, far deadlier. Since the Ebola outbreak began in February, around 300,000 people have died from malaria, while tuberculosis, which was recently found in a Fresno State student, has likely claimed over 600,000 lives. In the United States, Ebola will also not infect, nor kill, as many people as this year's seasonal influenza virus. Which some estimates indicate could infect up to 500,000. Even with these things however, it is smart that the Central Valley is being prepped with how to handle a potential case. With Barbara Boxer's letter outlining the importance of planning when it comes to handling a disease such as Ebola. It is normal for diseases to receive more hysteria than what is actually earned, especially when they catch us off guard. Ebola is and should be a fear, but it is important to keep those fears in context and not let them override much more pressing things that
Are you Ready For It?
Graphic by Lauren Baker
are much more likely to impact our lives. The last virus to get this kind of attention was the H1N1 virus, better known as “swine flu.” Panicking people could be found all over, while pigs were being seen as the bringer of
“Ebola will also not infect, nor kill, as many people as this year’s seasonal influenza virus.” death and talk of the disease making the jump from swine to human conquered the airways. And for comparison purposes, in 2009, it was reported the H1N1 had killed 10,000 people in the United States, while Ebola has so far killed 1. Ebola is a scary thought, the propositions of what would happen if one were infected with it are indeed terrifying to ponder. But instead of pondering those remote chances there are things that could be shown as more more risky and much more likely.
Ebola Facts: Ebola is extremely infectious but not extremely contagious. Ebola could be considered moderately contagious, because the virus is not transmitted through the air. Humans can be infected by other humans if they come in contact with body fluids from an infected person or contaminated objects from infected persons Facts found at CNN.com
l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
BY JULIAN RAMOS
Reporter jramos@therampageonline.com
What is sex? Who can do it? One of the hardships of the dating world is linked to the dialogue of “how soon is too soon to have sex?” Sex is a word that has developed a hybrid of feelings. It makes the more uptight people feel uneasy, but to some, sex is completely normal and natural. Along with the word, the physical act of sex has instilled an ocean of feeling. Sex can be very personal and private; it can be an expression of love, or an admiration of the beauty of the human body. It’s also something a person can do with themselves, someone else, or a number of other people and it can be amazing! So long as it is consensual and safe for participating partners. There’s a stigma around sex, in that, unless you and the other person romantically like each other, then sex shouldn’t be had. But what if nothing exists other than a sexual attraction? Picture it: two individuals meet, they talk, there’s nothing in common; they don’t share the same passion or interests but they mesh well and there is a physical attraction. Is it shallow? Maybe. But who is to decide what they should or shouldn’t do? Along with sex comes a whirlwind
of emotion. Maybe you get too attached to your first partner, maybe it was terrible and you’re put off completely, or the biggest and most common fear: what if you’re not ready but your partner has expressed interest and you don’t want to disappoint them? You seek advice from your closest friends or an adult you’re close to, but what good is their advice if two people can’t have a comfortable and open dialogue? Sex is a weird thing to talk about for some, for others it’s completely natural. Either way society has painted a not so attractive picture around it: anyone who expresses or engages in an open discussion on sex is perceived as a pervert and those who can’t are unable to dictate their thoughts or feelings around it. Religious upbringing also has a huge part in when people decide to have sex. To some, sex is only a method of procreation and sexual pleasure isn’t an issue. No one but the consenting individual can truly decide when the right time to have sex is. People develop differently; the mind, body and soul want different things at different times with different people. l TWITTER.COM/WINE_DAD
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
OPINION
10.15.2014
The Other Way Around BY LAUREN BARNETT
Reporter lbarnett@therampageonline.com
There is a double standard when it comes to two Louisiana high school English teachers who were accused of having a threesome with a student multiple times and taping the relations. Since the predators are female and the victim is a male, they have not been getting much backlash. The victim was a 16-year-old student at the time and is being praised and looked at as if he is a hero. This is completely absurd; citizens are making light of the situation because the victim is a male. Remarks are being made over news feeds like , well that must be one good looking 16-year
Christina Allen
I’m old school, when you get married. That’s when your supposed to.
Sex, Statutory and Double Standards
old or the 32-year-old is way hotter than the 24-year-old. This male victim is not getting the same treatment or attention that a female victim would get, if the roles were reversed. People would not think she was a hero or make comments that the males that had a threesome with her were hot. People are looking at this situation as if it is okay because the victim is male and males are usually the aggressors. What people fail to realize is that this young man was taken advantage of. This young student should get justice and be looked as a victim and not a hero.
Shylandra Hendersan
17 and older. I’m not saying its ok but it’s less, “Oh my god”.
Place yourself in the position of the victim’s parents. It would not be a joke. You would be completely outraged and ready to protect him like any normal guardian would. The gender of the victim should not matter. This is a foul and a discomforting image to think of. They are educators trusted by the state to conduct themselves in a professional manner. They are supposed to educate students and keep them safe. These teachers should be locked up and banned from teaching. They should have known better. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
Kashia Vu
As long as they know the responsibility about what happens after.
What is the appropriate age for sex?
Andrew Ochoa
I think women should walk graduation without having sex.
Danielle Atkinson
It really depends on your personal views and using proper judgment.
Steve Lee
Whenever you feel ready or comfortable. Just be responsible.
Photos by Katia Farias
The Freedom to Ignore
The Free Speech Area is a One-sided Platform
BY JULIAN RAMOS
Reporter jramos@therampageonline.com
Imagine it. You’re walking through campus, hurrying from one class to another when a stranger steps out in front of you and holds out a pamphlet. You either take it or say no. But next to the stranger and on that pamphlet are images of an aborted fetus. You now feel a sinking in your stomach; you feel sick, and your day is ruined. Who is cruel enough to circulate something so raw and brutal to an unsuspecting public?
Why would anyone want to see this? This doesn’t belong on a college campus. It's depressing; it’s gut-wrenching; it’s heart-breaking. Well, it falls under the freedom of speech. No, I don’t think there is a bias at the free speech area, but there is a constant in who uses it. The Free Speech Area is open to anybody to say anything, for the most part. But who truly utilizes this freedom? It seems like the religious extremists and anti-abortion activists employed the First Amendment--the freedom of speech--to disgust and offend most at Fresno City College. Everybody has a voice, both figuratively and literally, and with the rise of the Internet, people have taken the liberty of sharing their voice more frequently.
So on that day when the anti-abortion group invaded the FCC campus to hand out their vile pamphlets next to blown up images of aborted fetuses, they succeeded in expressing themselves, even if they used a disgusting antic to shame people. Whether you agree with them or not, this right trumps most others and should be supported by all. They are no different from others who use the First Amendment to justify their prejudice and hurtful remarks. Go ahead and preach whatever you want, good or bad, hate or love, positive or negative. America grants you the freedom to say what you want, but that doesn’t mean we have to listen. l TWITTER.COM/WINE_DAD
9
10
OPINION
10.15.2014 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
THE RIGHT TO BREATHE
A Walk In Someone Else’s Shoes
BY CALEB OWENS-GARRETT
Reporter cowens-garrett@therampageonline.com
BY YOLANDA BIRD
Reporter ybird@therampageonline.com
It’s something that assaults you, wherever you go, forcing you to leave because you cannot stand the smell any longer. It’s being forced out of a classroom, forced to stay away from the library because of the assaulting smell. It’s having to choose the lesser of two evils, breathing comfortably or risking an asthma attack, because the air you're breathing is toxically odiferous. Allergies and irritation to perfume, cologne, and any other fragrant items can wreak havoc upon the unaware. It can create a poor, if not unbearable environment for those with sensi-
Graphic/Yolanda Bird tivities to these products. In order to avoid the more troublesome effects, some have found it best to leave an area, covering their faces behind clothes and makeshift masks. Some will stand by an open window, no matter the weather, because the consequences of not getting untaint-
ed air can actually kill them. So a question remains, do people have a right to not be assaulted by toxic odors created by the overuse of perfumes, colognes and other fragrant items? Or do the fragrant obsessed individuals with their love of these products have a right to wear whatever they
want over other people’s right to take a breath without having their noses burn, throat close up, and lungs hurt? These products are being used at the cost of another person’s health. Anyone who is sensitive to environmental irritants and allergies knows what it feels like to get headaches, hives and, sometimes, even an asthma attack when exposed to any form of irritant. Breathing is a required part of life. It is one of the key functions that pushes people forward. Is it a right to be able to breathe? One would hope it is. Yet, people are denied this right, this required part of life, as they go about their daily lives trying to avoid irritants that will harm them. The most frustrating part of it all, the hiding and avoiding contact of others comes from the fact that those with so called ‘normal’ allergies and irritations, tree, grass and food, are compensated for. Accommodated or allowed to move because of their own allergies. Why not someone who is allergic to perfume, cologne or any other kind of fragrance allergy? Is it because it is not so widely known? Fragrance allergies are thought to not be a very common allergy or irritant. The reality is that there are many with this allergy or irritation. So many that, according to USA Today, some government buildings prohibits the wearing of perfume within them. Some schools, even, do not allow the use of perfume by the staff that works there. No one is asking to ban perfumes and other scented products from being used, as nice as that would be. What is being asked before it escalates is that people should watch how much they put on and to not assault those with allergies and irritation to these products. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
Danger is here, the crazies are near. Protect yourselves because the mental cases are here to stay! It is easy to say that living with a mental health disorder is difficult, but as shocking as it may be, it does come with a lot of negativity and ignorance. Step into one’s shoes for a second and please have a look around. All of the examples that surround mental health in media or in stories all have something to do with them being “crazy”. Does being bipolar make one crazy in society’s eyes? Something about this question always makes my mind wander. Yes, in most people’s eyes, they view someone with a mental health disorder as crazy. People often question themselves very often on whether or not they are crazy. We live in a world that if you attend therapy or have a panic attack, you are nuts! It shouldn’t be portrayed that way. Mental health disorders exist and society stigmatizes these issues too much. In the past few months, by observations one learns how it feels to be torn down completely when you are already on high alert. Mental health has been stigmatized by media to portray people with mental health disorders to be seen as crazy. For example, in the movie Girl, Interrupted, they portray the women in the mental health institution as crazy because of their uncontrollable actions. Living with a mental health disorder is not easy and certainly cannot be controlled by one living with it at periods of time. Living with manic depressive disorder and the stigma that people think you are crazy, when you cannot control the extreme feelings that you have. All there is to know is that every time you are called crazy, it shoots off feelings of anger and no self control to the point where you just want to lose control and that is okay because humans are entitled to losing it every once in a while. Let’s pretend that the word crazy doesn’t exist. What do you call people with mental health disorders now? Don’t push people down, it only terrifies them more. Please be mindful of your word choice and never forget, no one is crazy! l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
10.15.2014
SPORTS
11
MAN BEHIND THE MACHINE BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
In his time at Fresno City College, Paul Keysaw has won five state titles in 2006, 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012. With the three titles he won at Moorpark College in 1997, 1999 and 2000, Keysaw has the most state titles of any California community college wrestling coach.
The dominant FCC wrestling program with its past champions like Alfonso Sánchez (2006), Angel Olea (2007), Fernando Lucatero (2008) and Tigran Adzhemyan (2011) have all resulted from the man behind the machine -- head coach Paul Keysaw. He always talks about his toughness to his wrestlers on and off the mat, getting 110 percent out of them every single practice.
“Keysaw has taught me to take care of things off the mat like in the classroom, priority is everything,” said sophomore, Jason Snelson. “He’s taught me how to put away childish things.” Keysaw said his journey started early. His father had also wrestled. “In third grade, I took the permission slip home, and I’ve been wrestling ever since,” said Keysaw.
He felt the joys of winning competitions even while in high school in Pennsylvania in the 1980s. Keysaw was a two-time National Collegiate Athlet-
“ Midway through college, I
realized I could use the sport to help.”
-Head Coach Paul Keysaw ic Association Division I All-American in 1990, and he won a national title in 1991 at 190 lbs. “I liked winning. In hindsight, the lessons I got out of the sport kind of chiseled who I am today and how I approach everyday life,” he said. But Keysaw didn’t realize his true potential in wrestling until later on in life. “Midway through college, I realized I could use the sport to help,” Keysaw said. “I guess I was kind of a late bloomer.” FCC wrestling has been under current head coach Paul Keysaw, who took over from a “legend” in coach Bill Musick (1965-1998). “I’m happy to be a part of the tradition of Fresno City wrestling, I’m happy to continue the tradition, and keep this program where it’s been and that’s on top,” said Keysaw.
Paul Keysaw, coach for the Fresno City College Men’s Wrestling team, starts practice each day with a motivational speech or story to bring the team closer to their love of the sport and their purpose. Monday, Sept. 29, 2014. Photo/Desiree Aranjo
Villines Rebuilds Cheerleading Team
l TWITTER.COM/SLOCUM13
Battle of the Pump Rams Win 49-44, sixth straight victory against Reedley College
Fresno City College cheerleaders performing a routine during a football game. Saturday, Oct. 4, 2014 Photo/Patrick Forrest BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
Coach Hope Villines has transformed the Fresno City College cheerleading team from the stereotypical to athletes who sweat, bleed and dedicate everything to the sport. “When I first got here, we had a lot to prove as a program,” Villines said. Coach Villines took over the position as cheer coach for in 2008 when the program was on its last leg. It had almost become extinct because of mismanagement. It took Villines two years to turn the program around. The team has changed a lot over the years; interest in the team has gone up significantly and more people show up for tryouts. The quality of the applicants is much higher in talent level and respect. “It’s not about you; it’s about the team you’re cheering for, the sport you’re cheering for,” Villines tells her team constantly. Every year, the season begins with a try-out in the spring, then training through the spring in order to prepare for summer camp. The cheerleaders train as hard as any other sport team on campus.
“We work together, motivate each other and work as one instead as individuals,” said Freshman Audrinna Tavarez. The team gets ready for football season in the fall, followed by the basketball season. Cheer takes place through a span of 11 months out of the year. This year’s team is a new group for Villines, her smallest team since she’s been at the college. Villines instills a work ethic into her athletes that go beyond the field. “I want them to perform at a college level on the field and succeed in the classroom,” said Villines. “My athletes must keep their grades high all year long.” Since Villines took over, numerous cheerleaders have continued the sport in other arenas. Two former students are currently at Fresno State and one at Sacramento State. “As a coach it’s my job to get them ready for a four-year university,” said Villines Villines goal is to build a cheerleading scholarship program at FCC. “We’ve built the respect here at FCC,” said Villines l TWITTER.COM/SLOCUM13
(Top) Fresno City College receiver Kevin Stevenson avoids Reedley defensive back Daion Banks and scores a 19-yard touchdown. (Bottom) FCC running back Micah Ledezma avoids a Reedley defender. Saturday, Oct. 4, 2014. Photos/Patrick Forrest
12
PORTS
10.15.2014
Women’s Soccer Undefeated and Flying High Rams ranked No.1 in NorCal, No.2 in the state, outscoring opponents 36-4 BY MAX REAGAN
Reporter mreagan@therampageonline.com
The Women’s Soccer team at Fresno City College has maintained an undefeated streak all season. For nine consecutive years, the team has been No. 1 in Northern California. They are also ranked No.2 in the state. Though their line-up changes every season, the team has managed to stay unconquered. FCC has a record of 10-0-2, having played great offensively scoring 36 goals, on the defensive side of things the rams have only allowed a total of four goals.
“ Our freshmen came in with a lot of confidence.”
-Head Coach Oliver Germond
The last game the team played was against West Valley College on Oct 4. “West Valley College is usually a tough opponent,” Coach Oliver Germond said. “But we were up early in the game and we beat them 7-0.” Sophomore Forward Rianna Chavez had a game to remember, scoring four goals in the first half, she finished with five goals. She is ranked 16th in the state with nine goals on the season.
“We were well composed with and without the ball. We put our chances away when we had them.,” said Chavez, “We executed and focused on what we needed to. “ The second to last game played was at Foothill (Sept. 30). In a rematch of a state playoff game from last year, FCC dominated. “Foothill knocked us out of the playoffs last year, and we beat them 5-0 at their school,” the coach said. He attributes the team’s success to hard work. “We spend a lot of time working on fitness,” Germond said. “Our fitness is better compared to most teams.” The coach said that the team has been helped immensely by the freshmen. “We had lost a lot of good players from last year’s team, and our freshmen came in with a lot of confidence,” said Germond. Every year, the team loses graduating sophomores but gainv new freshmen. The biggest challenge is integrating the team together in such a short amount of time. “We have to combine the freshmen with the sophomores and make sure we have a good team chemistry, and that’s been the main challenge,” Germond says. “But it has gone well, and our players seem to get along well and understand their roles.” l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
Fresno City College Women’s soccer team has been dominant so far this season; In the game against American River College, #3 Jannely Rangel and #7 Jasmine Carion take on ARC Haley Halaran #10. Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2014 . Photo/Desiree Aranjo.