Since 1949
Volume CXV, edition 7
April 30, 2008
Doffoney finalist for chancellor job in Orange County by Joseph Boone Rampage Reporter
Photo by Joseph Rios
Steve Sanchez and Heather Toledo from the Polynesian Club of Fresno performed a number of cultural dances at the Asian Fest on April 26 in the free speech area.
Ed-Code bars Garamendi from speaking at FCC by Joseph Rios Editor in Chief Fresno City College leaders cited education code as the reason for turning down Lieutenant Governor John Garamendi’s proposed forum discussion about the state of higher education in light of California’s proposed budget cuts. “We’re adhering strictly to the ed-code,” said President Ned Doffoney. “Our college and our district does not advocate for a particular position without having both sides of the issue being presented.” Doffoney pointed to a letter
sent by the office of Mr. Garamendi that implied a slant against the proposed budget at the state level. The intent of the meeting, a press release from the event said, was to call on the Governor and Legislature to maintain the level of funding. Education Code 7054 stipulates, “No school district or community college district funds, services, supplies, or equipment shall be used for the purpose of urging the support or defeat of any ballot measure or candidate.” Another ed-code conflict came up last October when the Hillary Clinton campaign ex-
pressed interest in holding a campaign rally at Fresno City College. The Clinton camp, in turn, held the event a few blocks off-campus at Fresno High School. Sociology instructor Gerry Bill said that a new policy needs to be adopted and that the new policy should outline the guidelines explicitly. He and others say they are confused by what they see as inconsistencies in the enforcement of the ed-code when it comes to speakers and forums. Political Science Professor Mark Trezza said, “I think there is an issue: In general, are Dr. See “Garamendi” Page 4
Dr. Ned Doffoney, president of Fresno City College, spent last Monday in Orange County. He was among the three finalists in town speaking at community forums regarding the soon-to-be vacant North Orange County Community College District chancellor’s job. At 9 a.m., Dr. Doffoney was the first to take the floor at a candidates’ forum held at Cypress Community College. He was followed by a fellow community colDr. Ned Doffoney lege president and a former community college president, each taking one hour to address the attendees’ concerns. At the conclusion of the Cypress forum, the trio shuffled over to Fullerton Community College where a similar forum was held at 1 p.m. Doffoney said that when he discovered that current NOCCCD chancellor, Jerome Hunter, planned to retire on July 1, he viewed it as “an opportunity to grow as a professional.” He said that though the NOCCCD chancellor post was not his original goal, “One explores one’s opportunities as they become available.” Richard Santos, president of FCC’s Academic Senate said, “I think [Doffoney] would do very well in that position…he’s a guy that does see the big picture, and I think a chancellor definitely needs to see what the big picture is.” The other finalists are Christopher O’Hearn, former president of Mt. San Antonio College, and Rita Cepeda, president of San Diego Mesa College. O’Hearn received his Ph.D. in Higher Education from Capella University, an accredited online college. He taught English at Los Angeles Harbor College for eight years, before accepting the position of Dean of Academic Affairs. He spent six years serving
in South Orange County as Vice President of Instruction at Orange Coast College until 1999 when he was selected as the president of Mission College in Santa Clara. He left the post to become president of Mt. San Antonio College in 2002. Cepeda was born in Nicaragua and came to the United States with her family. She then devoted about 28 years of service to California’s community colleges. She has an Ed.D. in Educational Policy and Administration from the University of Southern California. When the San Diego Community College District Board of Trustees selected Cepeda as president of San Diego Mesa College, the most-senior trustee, Dr. Maria Nieto Senour was quoted in La Prensa, a local San Diego newspaper to have said, “I think it is important for us to have on our leadership team the perspective of someone who has first-hand knowledge of the culture of the largest growing segment of our community. “In addition, she has lived the immigrant experience, which is characteristic of many of our students.” All finalists formerly held educational leadership roles in the area. Cepeda was president of Santa Ana College in Orange Country until she was selected to be president of San Diego Mesa College in 2005, the position she currently holds. O’Hearn was the Vice President of Instruction at Orange Coast College and has also taught at El Camino College, Loyola Marymount University, Occidental College, Pepperdine University, and the University of Maryland. Doffoney was the president of Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, part of the South Orange County Community College District. He later became the founding chancellor and president of South Louisiana Community College in Lafayette, Louisiana. According to Doffoney, the NOCCCD Board of Trustees takes a vote on which candidate to appoint within the next few weeks.
INSIDE
Students help with the trash problem - page 3
Class promotes giving back - page 4
Dyson takes on race with unique style and grace - page 5
Rampage Idol makes a stage for student performers- page 8
Students learn a lesson in martial arts- page 15
Letters
2 Rampage
April 30, 2008
Rampage Rampage reporter admits plagiarism RAMPAGE
by Pedro Quintana
Rampage Reporter First and foremost, I would like to apologize to all of the Fresno City College Rampage readers who read the issues that come out Editor-in-chief: Joseph A. Rios News Editor: Joseph A. Rios every other week. Views Editor: Cynthia Moreno I feel so embarrassed about Entertainment Editor: Cody Gless the event that took place. On April Business Manager: Leah Edwards 15, I plagiarized an article that was Asst. Business Manager: Jeannie Batey from a writer on MTV News. I Adviser: Dympna Ugwu-Oju took credit for this article, and I’m so ashamed of this. It was a naive thing for me to do.
FRESNO CITY COLLEGE 1101 E. UNIVERSITY AVE. FRESNO, CA 93741
Reporters
Joseph Rios, Jeannie Batey, Cynthia Moreno, Cody Gless, Deshad Cato, Pedro Quintana, Adrine Avanesyan, Eddie Ortiz, Ivette Lopez, Ramiro Gudino, Joseph Boone, Alexis Abrahamson, Marcell Dilworth, Sebouh Simonian, David Malagon, John Esquiuel, Christopher Alaniz, Marcelino Rodriguez, Deon Sumlin
About Us Rampage is an award-winning newspaper published biweekly by the Fresno City College Journalism 4 & 5 programs and is a member of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges. Views expressed in The Rampage are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of Fresno City College, its students, administration or the State Center Community College District. Letters to the editor and submissions to the calendar will be accepted via e-mail or in person 12 noon - 1 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, at The Rampage, Room SC- 211, above the bookstore. Please keep all letters to a maximum of 500 words along with contact information.
Contact the Rampage Business: (559) 442-8262 Production Rm:(559) 442-8263 Fax: (559) 265-5783 E-mail: Editor In Chief: rampage-editor@fresnocitycollege.edu Rampage business Office: rampage-business@fresnocitycollege. edu Advisor: dympna.ugwu-oju@
It has embarrassed me as a writer and it will forever leave a scar in my life. The Rampage is a classroom and we have so many talented writers in this class. When coming in, you feel pressured. I felt that I had to catch up and be the best as the rest were, but it is a classroom and we are learning how to be better writers everyday. I have always thought that I had to be perfect and if I made a mistake I would really get upset at
myself. I have found out recently that we are all human. We make mistakes in our life and it is ok. I am truly sorry for this action that I took. I don’t think anyone should ever take an article and pass it off as theirs. I know how hard other staff members work on their articles and to have someone mess it up, is not fair at all. I hope you as a reader won’t think any less of the Rampage. I’m taking full responsibility for my actions. I have always been taught
to man up to my faults. This is a life changing moment for me as a writer, and a person. I want to make it right. I have learned a value able lesson and this will not happen ever in my lifetime. If I can turn back time, I wouldn’t have done it at all. I’m publicly asking the Fresno City College students and staff for forgiveness for this incident. I have learned so much in this past week. I’m hoping that our readers forgive me for my action. I am deeply sorry.
Editor’s apology to Rampage readers Admitting fault is one the most difficult responsibilities for a newspaper editor to do. Publications big and small are capable of making monumental mistakes. The Rampage is no different. Last issue, this newspaper published an article it believed was the original work of Pedro Quintana. It was brought to our attention later that this piece, “Recession Hurts Students” showed stark resemblances with a article that appeared online on MTV’s news site. Sources’ names were changed to an unknown or otherwise fraudulent one to cover up
the switch. The name of an unverifiable local expert was inserted in place of each. Beyond that, the piece was copied verbatim. I regret to inform the readers that our editorial staff was unable to catch the forgery before it went to print. Frankly, Quintana’s recent progress and growth as a writer fueled our acceptance of what we believed to be his improved work. We ignored our instincts and allowed such a grand mistake to pass by unnoticed. At a time when the Rampage is trying to gain credibility on this campus, such a blunder only
encumbers our efforts. It is with great disappointment and the utmost humility that I write this apology to Rampage readers. Our relationship with readers and each other as a staff depends on trust. Readers trust that the information in our paper is true and that what we produce is original. As a staff we trust that what is turned in by our reporters is indeed their own work. Last issue that changed. No longer can we simply depend on the academic honesty of our peers. It is a shame that it must come to that, but that is a burden we must
bear from now on. Quintana will not publish any stories beyond his personal apology for the remainder of the semester and will receive a failing grade for that issue in accordance with the college catalog regulations. The future of his individual case remains uncertain. I thank the readers for their continued support of the Rampage and all of its endeavors. We will venture to find a mode of prevention of just such an occurrence so that history is not allowed to repeat itself. Thank you for reading. -Joseph Rios Editor In Chief
Debt isn’t a bad thing Praise for Murphy review In your April 16 edition of the Rampage, Pedro Quintana talked about the debt students have when they leave college as if it were a bad thing. While credit card debt is especially onerous (read the contract BEFORE you sign up for a card), debt for college is like debt for a house: it is an investment in the future that should pay off in higher salaries over a lifetime. According to the bureau of labor statistics, students with associate’s degrees make an average of $9000 more than a high
school graduate while bachelor’s degree’s recipients make over $19,000 than the same high school grad (2005 data). Obviously a degree is no assurance of higher salaries nor does it guarantee more dinero. Case in point: I have a Ph.D. and Bill Gates is a college drop-out. It’s usually about possessing marketable skills and Bill’s skills are much, much more in demand (and worth more) than mine. -Fred Skydog Emerling Counseling
Thank you for the wonderful review of the recent Otis Murphy Saxophone Concert! Joe captured in his own way the almost unexplainable beauty of the music that was presented that evening. A simple “who, what, where, when” recounting of this event would not have even begun to tell the reader what occurred. Joe did about as good a job as anyone could in bringing this off! I am going to share this story with Otis and Haruko, and
others as well. In fact, could I have about 20 copies of that issue? Many of my friends, students, and colleagues were not able to come to the concert. Joe’s piece will tell them what they missed in a big way. Too bad for them! In my ten years at FCC, the Rampage is better now than ever. Your layout for the Otis review, for example, I thought was excellent. Your coverage of our music events has been better than ever, too. -Larry Honda Music Department
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News 3 Part of the Solution: students unite to make FCC clean April 30, 2008
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“These folks have come to the club late this term, but are injecting a lot of energy into trying to make this campus into becoming more green,� said Paul Gilmore, advisor of Sustainable Action. During the club’s meeting last Tuesday, each of the club members discussed the tasks they would like to accomplish. The club is presently working on planting trees around different schools across Fresno. They have contacted Tree Fresno to help them with their goal. “Tree Fresno only has three people on their staff and they do so much,� says Ashley Boujikian.
Photo by Joseph Rios
Shawn LaMont removes garbage from a pit area near the fountain. by Alexis Abrahamson FCC and other schools more ecofriendly. Rampage Reporter The Sustainable Action Every Tuesday at 3 p.m., Club was founded by three FCC a group of Fresno City college freshmen, Ashley Boujikian, Diana students gather in the Social Sci- VaVerka, and Jessica VaVerka who ence building to discuss different speak openly about their commitways they could each help make ment to saving the environment.
Classifieds Endorsed by Mikey Eagles Senator John McCain, President USA Henry Monreal, Fresno Mayor Douglas Treisman, Fresno Superior Court Judge seat 10 Nancy Holland’s BA 18 Business Law Presents the mock trial of Warner Bros. Ent. Inc. et al RDR Books et al
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There are not many members in the club, but that does not keep them from making big plans for the future. Sustainable Action is hoping to plant a student garden on campus, so that students can have a place to learn how to grow their own resources. They also are working on making new recycling bins around campus, so that they are easier to find. “We are pretty much in the planning phase of the club right now, once we have our ideas all figured and hopefully have more members, we can do start doing more,� says Diana VaVerka. After every club meeting,
the students walk around campus to pick up trash for about an hour, so that they can see a difference around them. Other students said they appreciated what the club members were trying to do and pitched in to help pick up trash. This club is not all talk; it’s about seeing and making a difference. “I have not joined any clubs all year, and this club gives back and actually makes me want to do something,� said new member, Lupe Hernandez. Those interested in joining the club, should call Ashley Boujikian at (559-284-9367)
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4 Rampage
April 30, 2008
Garamendi Speech 20 offers units to students who volunteer goes elsewhere by Ramiro Gudino
Rampage Reporter
Continued from page 1 Doffoney or Tom Crow saying we won’t host elected officials because of a dubious interpretation of ed-code?” According to an itinerary from the event at Fresno State, a seven-member panel of educators from the California State University, California Community College, and K-12 systems discussed the need to “protect California students from $5 billion in proposed state budget cuts for education.” “It was not a forum for laying blame or pointing fingers,” said Communications Director for Mr. Garamendi, Mike Roth. “We were talking about issues that affect real people.” When Fresno City College was no longer an option, he and his office transplanted their program to Fresno State. Roth said no reason for the college’s withdrawal was given to him. The college’s public information office contacted Trezza during the first week of April to notify him of Mr. Garamendi’s initial interest in visiting a classroom to talk with students. Trezza called to check the week of the event and found out that the lieutenant governor would not be coming to the college. “It made sense that I would have a political officer in my class. As a political science instructor, I’m pretty confident in my right to do so,” Trezza said. “I’ll fight tooth and nail when it’s related to the academics of my class.” Mr. Trezza has had a number of elected officials come his class in the past. He named Juan Arambula, Henry Perea, Tom Boyajian, and Susan Anderson as a few examples. When they came, Mr. Trezza said, “we didn’t hear anything from administration.” “If an instructor thinks a speaker would be beneficial, that’s their professional judgment,” said Bill. “They don’t have to get permission.”
Between general education requirements and major requirements, it’s hard to make time for any other classes, but sometimes it’s worthwhile to consider the benefits of some courses offered at Fresno City College. Speech 20 -- Community involvement -- is one such class. The catalog describes it as “Theory and practice of community service in nonprofit agencies. Emphasis [is made] on the analysis, practice and application of communication theory, leadership, and citizenship through a community service experience.” Lyn Badertscher, the instructor, describes the class as an application of skills learned in other classes. The class “gives you a chance to get some skills; for students who don’t have work experience, it’s a way to get recommendations and check out their field. Some know they are in the right place… some are doing some refinement.” Students keep journals, work on portfolios and resumes, and meet once a week to share their experiences (after all, it is a communications class). The students in the class were enthusiastic to discuss their experiences. Louise London said she learned that her major wasn’t what she had expected. She began working at a community hospital and realized the nursing field didn’t suit her. Instead of going through the various courses and coming to this realization several semesters into her training, the class gave her the insight she needed to change her major early. She is now volunteering at Edison High school, working with teachers and counselors. This placement has her considering mental health and counseling careers. Banish Bailey had a less drastic change of heart. Her origi-
nal major was teaching, but after volunteering at the Beautiful Zion Church’s after school tutoring program she found a better fit: social work. As she helped children with their reading and math homework, she found she was in position to help with a lot more than homework “There are people trying to figure out what they want to do. It’s just as important to find
Fresno Police Department. “It’s up to the students where they want to go,” Badertscher explains. Jeannette Mille, whose interests lie in social advocacy and victimology, noted the difference that choosing where you work makes. “I feel blessed to work at the [Marjory Mason] Center. I was first working at the Cedar/Clinton Public Library, and I didn’t like it at all.” Classmate Deana Brown
“It makes a difference when you find your niche.” - Deana Brown what they don’t want to do,” says Badertscher. The class is in contact with about 200 agencies. A class brochure lists the Chaffee Zoo, Craycroft Center for Children, Central California Blood Center, Valley Public Radio, Fresno County Library, Central California SPCA,
agreed, “It makes a difference when you find your niche.” The learning experience in this class is different than most other classes. Cheron Rojo is working at Valley Children’s hospital lab and has previously worked for St. Agnes. He found himself teaching
techs a few ways to do things. “I learned and taught there.”Working alongside interns and regular employees, these students have the same duties as anyone else in their field. Some students have occasionally received job offers from their volunteer company. Badertscher notes, “Employers tell me if someone will do the job right for nothing, they will be better if they are being paid.” Three sections of speech 20 are being offered during the 2008 Fall Semester; as of printing, all sections are open, though Badertscher states, “I like starting the semester with empty seats. The volunteer fairs at the beginning of every semester are a great way to promote the class.” Students can take the class for one, two, or three credits, based on their time commitment of 30, 60, or 90 hours and can be taken up to 4 times, allowing for up to 12 transferable credits. Brown stated, “By the time I’m done, my portfolio will look great. I tell people to take this class.”
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Rampage 5
Dyson speaks with scholar’s tongue and rapper’s swagger Homer Green: Define Democracy and how Democracy affects African Americans Dyson: I think Democracy is a set of institutions, practices and behavior that attempt to institutionalize the maximization of freedom in the context of a State. Democracy is the ability to organize freely without unnatural encumbrance around politics and citizenship. Latecia ‘Lady Bambay’ Mayle: What role do you think the black media play in uplifting the black community? Dyson: Historically the black media was important because without the black media we couldn’t get our voices heard. When you hear the Chicago Dependant, The Pittsburg Currier and the Michigan Chronicle these were important outlets for black people to articulate their vision and to tell the truth that was counter to the major narratives that was either obscured, distorted or ignored us. Jeff Steele: What are some of the practical things white Americans can do to be our effective allies? Dyson: Become conscious of the privileges of whiteness; consciously tear down white supremacy; consciously challenge the way in which white identities are made nearly invisible and therefore can’t be dealt with and unmasked. Finally, join with all people in creating a just society. Gerald Woods: My white friends believe that they are combating racism by making friends or hanging out around black people, what more can they do to combat racism? Dyson: Hire black people; make sure that education is fairly and equally distributed and making certain that anti-racism is a way of life like; supporting affirmative action; supporting practices that create greater not lesser justice; and a fairer distribution of resources. Habeeba Rahman: Do you think that Barack Obama has a chance? Dyson: Barack Obama has an extraordinary chance to become the nominee of the Democratic Party and then become the President of the United States – there’s no question he has a chance. Marvin Marshall: What do you think Barack Obama could do to combat the right wing echo chamber? Dyson: He has to constantly get his message out. He has amazing money. He has raised more money than anybody in the history of this country, in terms of running for office. So, he has got the dough, he just got to use that dough to open up the door. He has got to expand the possibilities that his view point will be articulated. Once he gets out of this fight with Hillary Clinton, although it is great training for what he has got to do against John McCain.
Georgetown Professor abandons politicalcorrectness by Marcel Dillworth Rampage Reporter Race, gender and politics were the major issues when renowned scholar, ordained Baptist minister and public intellectual, Michael Eric Dyson spoke in the Fresno City College (FCC) gymnasium last Friday. Even though Dyson’s speech was about serious issues, he kept his audience entertained with thought provoking comedy, as he blended today’s pop culture with yesterdays. Dyson sang excerpts of songs preformed by artists like The Chi-Lites and Snoop Dogg, while many in audience sang along with him. Ned Doffoney, the President of FCC who was at the event said, “I thought he was tremendous, he was honest and entertaining,� Doffoney also said that “He gave us a portrait of the condition, not only historically, that has existed in America, but he gave us some insight as of how we came to the current level of reasoning politically and socially.� Dyson spoke about how America still has a need for women like Harriet Tubman, “She had a Bible in one hand and a gun in the other.� Dyson went on to point out that when wavering slaves changed their minds and preferred to continue living in bondage, Tubman had to knock them out and drag them to freedom. Dyson did not shy away from talking about the controversial Rev. Jeremiah Wright, who was the pastor of the Democratic Party primarie’s front runner, Barack Obama. Rev. Wright has spent the past weekend attempting to clarify
Photo by Chris Alaniz
Michael Eric Dyson spoke to a crowded gym of students, staff, and interested community members about the racial hurdles, he feels, the country has yet to overcome. his inflammatory rhetoric which “The more you criticize America, Umaymah Rashid, who is a senior includes the assertion that the the less patriotic you are to be at Fresno State and is majoring in business. “Everything he said United States brought on the 9/11 perceived.� Britney Beinard, a nursing spoke to me: the hip hop, social attacks with its own terrorism. He also pointed out that student who will be graduating issues and the comedy was exeven the civil rights leader; Rev. in May 2008, said “I liked the tremely relevant. It was mind Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. con- way he mixed race with politics; blowing,� she said. Dyson has spent most of his sistently made controversial state- he was real honest and to the career in the education community. ments like “America was founded point.� He taught at De Paul University, “I think it was a wake up on genocide.� Chicago Theological Seminary, Dyson went on to state that call to young people of color,� said the University of North Carolina the week before King was assas- Cheimeka Comier, who is a preat Chapel Hill, Columbia Universinated, he was going to preach veterinarian medicine student. She sity, Brown University and the a sermon titled, “Why America said she liked the part of Dyson’s University of Pennsylvania where speech that pointed out that “rich Could Go to Hell.� he was the Avalon Professor of Dyson pointed out that just white people control America.� Dyson spoke about his be- Humanities. because people criticize America, Professor Bernard Navarro, does not mean they do not love lief that poor whites, black Ameria member of the speaker’s forum, America. “If you love your coun- cans and Latinos do not run this the organization that invited Dytry, you would tell the truth,� said country, regardless of the chatter son to FCC, said that the decision Dyson. He pointed out that his that says certain minority groups making process was tough. Their mom criticized him when he was are taking over. list consisted of George Lopez, Habeeba Abdur-Rahman a a child. As they talked about the sophomore, Liberal Arts student, Anderson Cooper, Cornell West parts of Dysons speech that they said she liked how Dyson called and Steven Colbert. “We wanted someone who liked many of the students and for strong women to take part in was an intellectual,� Navarro said, guests said they enjoyed the event. strengthening our country. “Black adding he told his fellow members, “I was moved to tears,� Burnis E. woman are the backbone of the “Dr. Dyson, this guy will bring it; WED 4.30 THE RAMPAGE family and more4.895 blackx 7.5 men Tuck said in response to Dyson’s black if you bring him here, you will not comment about the criticism. need to hold on to them.� She atforget that he was at FCC.� tended the event with her sister THA – SF
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April 30, 2008
Cinco de Mayo: History and Tradition by Adrine Avanesyan Rampage Reporter
How important is culture? The loss of cultural identity is often described as “Cultural Genocide.” It seems as though assimilation into mainstream American culture has become a trend. Youth of non-American descend find it harder to hold on to their roots. Thus, celebrating different cultures in schools has become more important than ever. Fresno City College is no stranger to celebrating culture. Every year FCC commemorates Black History Month, AsianAmerican Month, and Native American Heritage. Currently, the college activities office, Associated Student Government, and Latino faculty and staff are sponsoring different events, which commemorate Cinco de Mayo. According to the World Book Encyclopedia, Cinco de Mayo is the commemoration of the victory of Mexican forces, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. It is primarily a regional federal holiday in Mexico. Gurdeep Sihota, director
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of FCC college activities said that the activities planned for Cinco de Mayo provide the opportunity to educate FCC students. She said, “These events help us look forward towards the future to see what types of issues we need to address.” Cinco de Mayo activities
Art in Fresno by Ivette Lopez Rampage Reporter
Art. Most think of art in regards to paintings hung of naked people or canvases covered in splashes of paint that one can’t make sense of. However, Art consists of many other mediums, such as music, dance, theatre, sculpture and of course, paintings. Although some may not think of Fresno as artistically advanced, there are many places around town where one can discover their inner Da Vinci.
Music: If you’re the type that would rather listen to a concert than going to a museum, then exploring the different music venues might be the right choice for you. The first place to look is right here on campus, at the FCC theatre. Here at FCC you can see your classmates performing in orchestras, plays, or occasionally catch an instructor playing a tune. Upcoming performances include the actor’s showcase taking place on April 30th and ending on May 5th, and the piano recital taking place in May showcasing
advanced piano students and piano majors. For something outside of school, try visiting the Tower District just a couple of blocks away from campus. Jazz lovers will really enjoy listening the night away to different jazz tunes played by members of the Jazz Fresno community that include Andre Bush, David Aus, and Gary Newmark. Taking place on the second and fourth Sunday’s of the month, different jazz groups showcase their talent in the Tower Mosaic located at 1040 N. Fulton in the Tower District. During the first Thursday’s of every month, Tower Mosaic also hosts Arthop, where various artists perform for the masses.
Theatre: If listening to music for hours on end isn’t your scene, then going to catch a play or acted performance either on or off campus might be the start of your artistic journey. Although the student run plays are over for the season on campus, there still are a few performances taking place at the FCC theatre. Upcoming shows include performances for the festivities
at FCC started on April 28 and will last until May 9. Today at 2 p.m., there will be a local gang panel discussion in the student lounge. On April 28, 2008 authors Mario Rocha and Solomon Zavala held a discussion in the student lounge at 12 p.m. A screening of “Mario’s Story,” a
film about Mario Rocha’s experience of being falsely incarcerated for murder, was shown at 2 p.m. There will be a speaker’s forum featuring Dolores Huerta, “The Time is Now,” on May 1 at 11 a.m. at the FCC gym. Dolores Huerta is the co-founder of the United Farm Workers of America,
of Cinco De Mayo showcasing Grupo Folklorico de Fresno City College which will be presenting Noche de Danza Mexican Gala Performance at the FCC theatre on May 3rd. Another quirky activity taking place on campus is called “Teasers – An evening of ten minute plays” which will take place on May 5th-6th in FCC Studio 105. Here, a series of short plays, written by students will be performed. All proceeds go to the Theatre scholarship fund. If you want to see plays or operas outside campus, make a trip downtown and visit the Saroyan Theatre, where professional artists display their talents by participating in operas and plays. Home to the Fresno Philharmonic, this historic theatre pays tribute to William Saroyan while hosting a multitude of events that Fresno can enjoy. Upcoming events include the Fresno Philharmonic presenting “American Inspiration” on May 10th – May 11th. You can also see a variety of performances
at the Second Space Theatere and Roger Rocka’s, both found in the Tower.
which she co-founded with Cesar Chavez in 1960. On May 3, Groupo Folklorico De Fresno City College will present, “Noche De Danza Mexicana Gala.” The performance will take place in the FCC theatre at 7:30 p.m. and general admission will cost $5.00. FCC has many great events planned for the fifth of May, or “Cinco de Mayo.” At 10 a.m., there will be a piñata for the FCC Child Development Center. There will also be food booths and music in the free speech area. At 11 a.m., a mariachi band called, “Mariachi De La Tierra,” will start their performance at the main fountain area and will walk all the way towards the free speech area. At 12 p.m., FCC will crown the Cinco De Mayo queen and there will be a performance by the FCC Groupo Folklorico. There will also be a Cinco de Mayo sidewalk sale. Although the Cinco De Mayo events end this week, the Latino graduation celebration will be held on May 9 at 5:30 p.m., in the free speech area. -Whether you are of Mexican descend or not, come out and enjoy the festivities and take the opportunity to learn about a different culture.
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Museums: If you’re willing to take the so-called traditional route to see local art, then a visit to one of Fresno’s museums might be your choice. Fresno City College is home to one very special works of art displayed in the Art Space Gallery on campus. Admissions are free, and once you enter you are welcomed by works of both students and staff combined. Currently on display are ceramic works done by sculptor Dennis Gallagher, who is an internationally appraised artist. His works will be on display until May 9th, and students are welcomed to visit the Art Space Gallery on Tuesdays from 10am-5pm, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am-8pm or Fridays from 10am-2pm. Located on First and Clinton not too far from campus, however, lies a small hidden museum that holds a
wide collection of art from all over the world. Currently on display is John Nava’s collection titled Neo-Icons, which are a series of paintings and tapestries. Carrying an anti-war theme, Nava’s collection boasts his talent as an artist as well as portrays his own negative sentiments towards the war in Iraq. Also on display at this museum includes Earth, Wind and Fire: The Stratton Collection of PreColumbian Mexican Sculpture, which showcases paintings and sculptures from Latin America. Exhibits change constantly, making the Fresno Art Museum the perfect place to visit to catch a glimpse of new and modern art. If visiting a large metropolitan area is not within your reach, then visiting any of these venues will allow you to explore your artistic side without having to leave your hometown. Fresno isn’t necessarily an art-stripped place; on the contrary, we have many artists and venues that are just waiting to be discovered.
Entertainment
April 30, 2008
Rampage 8
Rampage Idol WINNER DECLARED
Kevin Potts
by Eddie Ortiz Rampage Reporter
Last Thursday eight Fresno City College students danced, sang, and free -styled in hopes of earning tickets to this year’s Van’s Warped Tour. The Rampage Club presented “Rampage Idol”, a talent showcase intended to find undiscovered talent on FCC cam-
Christopher Dichosa
Izario
Nick Chacon
pus.
FCC student, Nick Chacon came in second place, with an acoustic version of Rhianna’s song “Umbrella.” “I had fun playing in the show. It felt good to get up in front of people and play music,” said Chacon, “I wasn’t nervous at all. I just had a good time while I was playing.” FCC students Cameron Moses and Marcell Dilworth won first place; they
performed an original rap song. Other performances included: Kevin Potts who danced, Christopher Dichosa who performed a song on the guitar and Matt Juarez and Gabriel Hudgins who performed a spiritual rap song. The Vans Warped tour will be at the Save Mart Center. It is scheduled for August 13,2008, from 12p.m. to approximately 6p.m.
“Idol” took place around noon in the Free Speech Area. The event took place in front of a small but energetic crowd, who grew restless from the long period of delay. They were ready to be entertained by their fellow peers. Preparation for the event had been a month long process. Posters and flyers plastered the campus bulletin boards.
Photos by Romiro Gudino
WHAT? Amtrak California’s San Joaquin trains
and Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches connect Fresno City College and Fresno to communities and destinations throughout California.
students the opportunity to travel around California at some great savings. Thruway Motorcoaches also connect students with Amtrak trains in the Bay Area and Southern California.
WHY? It’s convenient, economical, and a relaxing
HOW do I make a reservation? Simply visit our
and scenic way to travel. The train is great for studying, sleeping, eating, or spending time with friends.
WHEN? Amtrak San Joaquins® has convenient departure times throughout the day offering Fresno City College
website at Amtrak.com to check current fares and schedules. You can make reservations online, at a staffed station, or by calling 1-800-USA RAIL.
WHERE do I catch the train? The Fresno Amtrak
station is located at 2650 Tulare Street at Highway 41. Here a friendly Amtrak agent can help you with ticket sales, checked baggage, and general travel information.
Discou
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Amtrak.com • Now En Español • 1-800-USA-RAIL This discount is valid for sale 01Sep07-19Jun08 and valid for travel 04Sep07-22Jun08 on the Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquins and associated thruway service, including Merced to Yosemite, all other 7000-8999 series thruways are excluded. Offer valid for 20 percent off the best available coach adult rail fare for students of the following California Colleges and Universities: California State University (Bakersfield and Fresno), Fresno City College (Fresno), California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo), University of California (Merced, Irvine, and Santa Barbara, University of the Pacific (Stockton), University of San Diego (San Diego), San Diego State University (San Diego), and Santa Barbara City College (Santa Barbara). Blackouts apply for the following dates: 20-27Nov07, 14Dec07-02Jan08, 20-24Mar08 and 23-26May08. Passenger must be a student and show a valid student ID (when purchasing tickets and on board train) for one of the colleges listed above. Reservation must be made at least three (3) days prior to travel date. Once travel has begun, no changes to the itinerary are permitted. This discount is not valid towards purchase of multi-rides and is not valid thru a travel agency. Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply. Refer to discount V363. Amtrak, Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquins and Travel Made Simple are service marks of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation. 07-CAL-055-CollegeAd-Fresno City1 1
8/24/07 9:26:58 AM
9 Rampage
Entertainment
April 30, 2008
Forgetting Sara Marshall and Segel’s Privates by David Malagon Rampage Reporter
“Forgetting Sarah Marshall” opened Friday April 13 nationwide. According to fandango.com the film is currently ranked number four grossing over $11.0 million dollars this week in ticket sales. “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” is written by actor Jason Segel, who starred in many motion pictures such as “Knocked Up” (2007) and “Can’t Hardly Wait” (1998) costarring with Jennifer Love Hewitt. The film is directed by Nicholas Stoller who also wrote the screen play for the film “Fun With Dick and Jane” (2005) starring Jim Carey. The film starts out with sexy crime fighter Sarah Marshall (Kristen Bell) as a heart throbbing actress who has taken the entertainment business by storm with her spunky wit. Marshall (Kristen Bell) has been dating Peter Bretter (Jason Segel) a composer who writes and performs the music for Sarah’s very own crime fighter series. After Marshall’s rise to fame, she decides to dump her boyfriend of five years, for British rocker, Aldous Snow (Russell Brand) with whom she ventures off on a vacation. In a depressed and obsessive state and wanting to forget his love Sarah Marshall, Bretter decides that a vacation will be the best medicine for him. By Coincidence Marshall and Bretter both end up at the very same resort and vacation spot in Hawaii.
google.com/images Once in Hawaii, Bretter tries to check in at local resort but since he did not RSVP ahead of time, all of the regular rooms are booked for that weekend. Peter and Sarah had spotted each other at the resort and Peter panicked and didn’t know how to react. Sarah’s potential replacement, Rachel played by Mila Kunis (the receptionist at the resort) offers Peter a deal he could not refuse,-- free room and board for his entire stay while in Hawaii. Feeling sorry for Bretter, Rachel took
into account what he was going through and saved him from a potentially embarrassing moment with Marshall. Peter and ex-girlfriend Sarah Marshall battle it out throughout the film; Marshall who still has feelings for Peter, finds it very hard to ignore how she really feels. She began to realize that Aldous Snow her British rock star lover, is no Peter Bretter and can’t offer her the same emotional stability as Peter once did. On the other hand, Peter starts to fall
for Rachel the receptionist, and that’s when the story takes a dramatic leap off the edge of Peter and Rachel’s comfort zones, past heartbreak experiences and once again establishing a potential love connection. This film is a must see; it offers non-stop laughs and a great story line for young adults, although it is not suitable for teens under 17. The film has been rated R for Language and sexual content. It is an unforgettable romantic comedy, a genuine classic!
NOW’S the TIME Finish your bachelor’s degree 13-18 months — one night a week
FIND OUT MORE
Information Meeting Thursday, May 1 | 5:30 p.m. Reserve your spot call 453-3440 or visit
fresno.edu/nowsthetime
April 30, 2008
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October 10, 2007
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What is your Six-Word Memoir? by Jeannie Batey & Cynthia Moreno Rampage Reporters Imagine writing your personal memoir. The words offer a small peek into the truths of the inner soul. They are secrets that have been tucked away and locked in; words conjured up, while footsteps track the history of our lives. Each word defines our life, and strangers will read these words. Imagine the curiosity, the intrigue, and the speculation about the significance of each word contained within the memoir. Imagine writing a few words about yourself that will be read throughout history, engravings of precious words that glow
through the open window of the eyes. This everlasting emblem can be the personal landmark of your lifetime. Now imagine this memoir, or your life’s short summary, being told with only six words… Ernest Hemmingway was challenged to write a story with only six words. He wrote, “For Sale: Baby shoes, never worn.” Authors called it Hemmingway’s best work. The six word memoir popped up online in 2006 by a storytelling magazine called SMITH. Employees of SMITH deliberated with friends and co-workers and built up a contest where brevity was key. Readers were invited to submit their life
story summed up in a six word sentence. Soon, SMITH had to sift through thousands of submitted stories. Each sentence was a story; different and unique. Some were humorous and witty, like the one submitted by A.J. Jacobs, “Born Bald. Grew hair. Bald again.” And some of the stories harbored a feeling of pain or sorrow like Ronald Zalewski’s sentence, “Was Father, boys died, still sad.” The contest gave hungry story readers and writers a chance to get their stories written and published. The winners were put in a six word memoir book called “Not quite what I was planning: Six word memoirs from writers famous and obscure.”
The book has thousands of memoirs from celebrities and inspirational public figures. Deepak Chopra, Joan Rivers, and Moby submitted their memoirs. People interested in reading these memoirs can visit www.sixwordmemoir.com. Writers are challenged by limiting the memoirs to only six words. The Rampage is looking for six word memoirs, so sit down and reminisce about the nostalgic moments throughout your entire life and submit your six word memoir to rampage-editor@fresnocitycollege.edu. The following are a few that the Rampage was able to collect from around the FCC campus. Enjoy!
CAMPUS VOICES “Love makes my life go around.” - Katie Snyder-
“ A midget said, Life is short.” - Mike Servantes-
“I love chicks; I love beer.” - Xavier Garcia-
“I deliver truth to the masses.” - David Malagon-
“ I got homework to do, damn.” - Delaney Matson-
“ Always fight for what you want.” - Maria Ramirez-
“ Knowing is not enough, said Bruce.” - Sokpenh Sam-
“ Life’s decisions lie in the heart. ” -Cynthia Moreno-
“With mom I’m gas or water.” - Jeannie Batey-
Continued...
“ Be like water: shapeless, adjustable, adaptable.” - John Grayson-
April 30, 2008
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Rampage 11
“I have a crazy, weird life.” - Ivan Paz-
“ Life is great; live it fully.” - Jeff Barrett-
“ One day you will understand why.” - Brandon Brown-
“I love life, family and football.” - Deandre Whitney-
“All that I encounter complete me.” -Dympna Ugwu-Oju-
“Grow strong. Seek knowledge. Find hope.” - Leah Edwards-
Six Word Memoirs “A rose that grew from concrete.” -Eddie Ortiz-
“ Live life to the fullest: Behave.” - John Morales-
“ Still waiting for life to come.” - Alexis Abrahamson-
“Can not stop the changing tides.” - Adrine Avanesyan-
“ My creative juices are not flowing.” - Rose Paloma-
“No whining, no stress. just comfortable.” - Abraham Flores-
“ I only need one word: ha!” - John Doe-
“Hate city life; love country life.” - Chris Alaniz-
Continued...
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12 Rampage
April 30, 2008
“Unlearn phrase, I can’t do it.” -Curtis Ortega-
“I will never, ever give up.” -Marcell Dilworth-
“I am always looking for mistakes.” - Sasha Bell-
“The truth hurts, but lies kill.” -Sebouh Simonian-
“Bringing the truth, changing the world. -Cody Gless-
“Never give up and keep going.” -Don SumlinCSU Fresno LTC Ad Rampage
4/18/08
“Wait. Did that really just happen?” -Joseph Boone-
1:39 PM
“Life: Words know not the words.” -Joseph Rios-
Page 1 Ken Bickel Brown Disk 74.5: II325ME/CSU Fresno LTC ADs:CSU Fresno LTC AD Rampage:
April 30, 2008
Rampage 13
News
14 Rampage
April 30, 2008
FCC alumnus founds website devoted to cats Rampage Reporter Within the past few years, various internet sites and videos have been wildly popular. The internet has created many celebrities in the process. Everyday, many people log on and visit these sites religiously. Some of these sites include Myspace, Youtube, and Facebook. Many sites have also gained a cult following with many users. One site in particular is based out of our own town of Fresno. Mario Garza, an FCC alumni, created the popular website Stuff On My Cat and Robot Plague Designs. In his offices in east Fresno, he manages to juggle both businesses. Stuff On My Cat allows people to send picture of various objects on their favorite felines. This definitely seems like
a very bizarre idea, but the popularity of the site has kept it going. The site receives thousands of hits. The idea goes as far back as Garza can remember. He was always putting various objects on his cat and got a kick out of it. One day, he found that someone else had done the same thing and posted pictures on a message board. He figured that if someone else found it humorous, there must be others out there who would appreciate it too. He eventually created the site and promoted it on various message boards. “It spread like wildfire� said Garza. Today, he is selling various types of merchandise including calendars, t-shirts, books, and even cat apparel. The popularity has led to the site being featured in People Magazine, The Daily Show, VH1’s The Best Week Ever, and The New York Times. “Its been all over the place!� said Garza. The
site is always kept fresh with new pictures and updates, leaving many adoring fans satisfied. Recently, he began a sister site called Stuff On My Mutt. Mario Garza also runs Robot Plague Designs, a graphic design company. This company has also been very successful for him. Like Stuff On My Cat, it started out in his bedroom. Eventually, he had to relocate to an office for various reasons. “I was getting so much work and was constantly meeting with clients that I just needed a space to work at� said Garza of the quickly growing company. “Having meetings in your bedroom at your parents house isn’t the most ideal environment to discuss projects.� His studio is graced with some of teacher teach students and watch their reac- his past works including t-shirts and posters. tions in class while I speak and listen to their His office is equipped with his work needs, concerns and really, in essence, watch them along with a collection of various toys and learn, think and interact� he said. CD’s. It seems more like a place of relaxation Weinschenk’s story is unique: he and hanging out than a place of serious busicontinues to adjust and adapt to students’ ness. The back part of his office building use ways of thinking and interacting. He has to house a screen printing shop, but he has challenged all odds by continuing to instill traditional ways of learning and thinking among his students. Although he has long since been retired, he remains a part-time professor on by Deshad Cato the FCC campus. Rampage Reporter The love of teaching and keeping busy has kept him lecturing new batches of students as the years pass by. When faced Fresno City College held a special with questions about his teaching career on banquet for retiring faculty and staff on the FCC campus in the present and in his April 24. future, he simply says: The banquet, held at the Fort Wash“I don’t think I am going to be bored ington Country Club was attended by well anytime soon.� over 100 friends, family members, and Weinschenk juggles several hobbies. colleagues. He spends his Wednesday nights hosting For over three hours, FCC celebrated KVPR’s Valley Writers Read workshop. and recognized the 23 retirees, some who Callers listen, read and discuss poetry, short have been teaching for more than 30 years, essays and stories pertaining to their lives over dinner for their years of service and or those around them. dedication to the art of teaching. He also spends much time making The annual banquet is always one of home decorations and carvings out of pat- the highlights of the year. terns. Each of the 23 retirees that attended His collection includes those of received desktop mementos inscribed with blue jays, doves, eagles, and other small their name and years of service. caricatures. He also makes flowers out of The dean of each retiree’s department tin cans. So far he has made a gopher and a was also on hand to talk about their former mantis just for fun. Although he says, “I am colleagues, making the event a memorable definitely not an artist.� one. If he’s not practicing his artistic One of the retirees, sociology instructalents at home, he can be found participat- tor Gerry Bill, has been with FCC since ing in marathon competitions. Recently, he 1970 and is one of the schools most revered participated in a triathlon where he swam instructors. eight laps, rode a bike for ten miles and ran “I have mixed feelings about retirfor two miles. With an enthusiastic smile, he ing,� said Bill. “To tell you the truth, I’m says “It only took me an hour and twenty sad to be leaving the best job in the world. minutes.� On the other hand, I’ll be traveling to difThus far, Weinschenk hopes to keep ferent places that I wasn’t able to go due to busy for the coming years. One thing he FCC’s schedule.� knows for sure is that he “is old enough Many other teachers are doing the to enjoy life, keep busy and be active.� At same. eighty eight years old, Franz is leaving a An example would be Sandra Clevelegacy of teaching on the FCC campus and land, who has been retired since 2007 and beyond. who had worked for FCC since 1976. His years of teaching and his stories Rather than go the usual stereotypical of experience have added to the spirit of route, Cleveland traveled to Alaska shortly FCC. His recollections and memories have after her tenure had come to an end. added to the knowledge that FCC Students The Banquet comes right before the gain. His wisdom has become a part of our Faculty and Staff Appreciation dinner to be knowledge, our learning, that we will carry held on May 8. with us on our educational journey beyond The R.S.V.P-only banquet will be the hallways of what we now know to be held in the cafeteria and expects between Fresno City College. 90 to 100 people to attend. The gold, red and white-themed
Age only a number by Cynthia Moreno Rampage Reporter Franz Weinschenk has taken Fresno City College on a historical journey through decades of teaching. He has reminisced about times of struggle, times of pride, and times of imminent change. His experiences are unique: they have given perspective to the thoughts, the feelings, and the emotions that he experienced during societal changes that were simultaneously stirring at the forefront of his teaching career. Weinschenk has taken readers through the turmoil of the sixties, the growth and preservation of the seventies and the present energy crisis within the last three decades. The future for Franz continues to be emphasized in the importance of energy preservation and alternatives as the world faces increasing shortages of its most natural resources. He writes a column every month for the Community Alliance newspaper in which he highlights energy saving tips and discussions in the surrounding community and beyond. “I will continue to be an energy activist,� he said. “I don’t mind paying visits to the Fresno City Council to express my concerns regarding the energy consumption taking place in the Fresno area and suggesting possible improvements. You want to be respectful [to the council] and wait your turn. Many times, if you keep at it, something good will come out of it,� Aside from his energy-saving crusade, Weinschenk is looking forward to teaching one class for the fall semester of 2008: English 3: Critical Thinking. He wishes that students weren’t so consumed within the world of gadgetry and electronics as far as e-mail and texting go. The challenge he continually faces is: “How do you keep students interested with all these technological advancements?� Maintaining students interested is by teaching them the fundamental basics of learning. His hope is that electronics do not begin to substitute real human relationships which he finds lead to distance learning. “I am really all about having a
since discontinued screen printing in order to concentrate on his other tasks. Garza has done various projects in the past for all types of clients. He just finished up a cover for The University of Arizona Press. He also just designed his first wine label. In the past, he has done some design work for The Used, Hawthorne Heights, New Found Glory, and Taste of Chaos. Within the year, Garza plans on moving to Portland and running his business there. Garza sees many types of opportunity in store for himself. “With my line of work I’m able to work anywhere I want, so I’m going to take advantage of that� he says of his opportunity in Portland. Once he gets there, he hopes to attend film school. It’s refreshing to see popular businesses strive in our town. It’s especially nice to see when they get national recognition. Garza’s design company and his website in particular are an example of how interesting success can be. You never quite know how your ideas can take off.
Retiring faculty, staff honored at banquet banquet will be decorated by Executive Vice President Wes Maldonado who is also running for Legislative Vice President and the current Legislative Vice President Lisa Kooiman. Jerry Hinslor has created four center pieces for the event as well. A kind of People Choice Award for FCC, the banquet is designed to let students, faculty, and staff honor those who they feel is most deserving. Anyone on the faculty and staff can be honored. The event has been described as a very elegant affair with no expense spared to make it a memorable night. The names of those being recognized will not be revealed until the event on May 8th. N A T I O N A L
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The University of Values
by John Esquivel
April 30, 2008
Faculty members teach defense
by Ramiro Gudino Rampage Reporter On April 18, 2008, Fresno City College hosted its third annual martial arts workshop. The event is the brainchild of Asian American studies director, John Cho, who said he started coordinating the classes when he realized that several other faculty members studied various forms of martial arts. Instructors this year included Dennis Adkins (student services), Homer Green (counseling), John Cho (Asian American Studies), and Bernard Navarro (American Indian studies), and a handful of others. Students were very enthusiastic
Photo by Ramiro Gudino
about the lessons. Joshua Thomas , a business major, participated in Brazilian jujitsu and Seven Star Praying Mantis Kung Fu demonstrations. He was impressed with the attention to detail Kung Fu required. Jacquie Cotton, a nursing student, said, “I wish they would offer this more often. Even just the self defense classes.” This sentiment was echoed by Chicano studies major Cresencia Cruz. “Its necessary to know some things… I wish more women had come to the self defense class,” she said.
Fresno City College Bookstore
News
Rampage 15
News
April 30, 2008
16
National
Economic
Woes
Hit Home Faustina Torres wrestles with financial crisis by Ivette Lopez Rampage Reporter With the price of gas soaring, grocery prices doubling and cost of living at all-time highs, Americans everywhere have been forced to ration in order to survive. For some, this may mean skipping that extra trip to the salon; for others, it may mean keeping those pair of shoes that you would have been tossed due to the tiny black smudge on the left side. For the growing numbers, the recession has been a time to take out their killer instincts in an effort to stay alive. According to the hunger study done by hungerinamerica. org, in Fresno alone, an estimated 68% of people live below the poverty line. About 169,400 fellow citizens rely on food banks such as the Community Food Bank in Fresno annually. Out of those people, approximately 38% are under the age of 18, and 7% are in their elderly years. Faustina Torres is one student that is currently dealing with the financial crisis. Even before the recession began, her mother and incapacitated brother were already struggling to make ends meet. Once the recession hit, however, Torres was forced to seek another job that allowed her to pitch in with the living cost. Torres says that in her neighborhood, crime is definitely increasing as people without jobs have to consider other methods to make money.She lives on the eastern side of town where she says prostitution and drug consumption happen on a regular basis. “The stress of work and school is overbearing sometimes, but I have to motivate myself if I want to sleep in my bed another night,” Torres said. Her mother, who lives paycheck-to-paycheck is currently
struggling to keep up rent and is becoming more weary with time. According to Torres, things aren’t getting much easier. Torres mentioned that dropping out of school would be an option as her family’s well-being came before hers. “Even though I don’t want to, I might have to drop out of school. Everything is just way too expensive,” she said. Another student that is currently struggling with the recession is Victor Parra. Working in landscaping during the day, he goes to school mid-day and then returns home to his working parents and younger brother. Although they do not make extravagant amounts of money, Parra’s family does not qualify for various programs offered by the government such as WIC or Food Stamps, making it somewhat of a challenge to purchase everything for a family of four. “My family eats lots of canned foods. We look out for specials and we buy only what we need,” Parra said. For these two individuals, the recession has cost many commodities. For Torres, school is considered her pot of gold that she might have to give up while for Parra, feeding his family is constantly on the back of his mind. “My friends worry about missing a football game on T.V. or not buying the latest video game while I worry about having enough to buy some dinner for my little brother,” Parra said. Although more and more people are under stress and financial woes, the numbers aren’t going down. A staggering 47% of people are still being left to make a choice between food and utilities while another 30% must choose between housing and food. For individuals like Parra and Torres, all that is left to do is wait and hope that things will take a turn for the better.
Photos Special to the Rampage
Faustina Torres struggles to make ends meet while trying to stay in school. In a single-parent household, she and her brother take part in the bread-winning for the family.