RAMPAGE February 4, 2015 Vol. CXXVI I S S U E 1
Student-Run Newspaper of Fresno City College
VETERANS RESOURCE CENTER OPENS
A student veteran looks on as the Colorguard marches on campus on Jan. 28, 2015. Photo/ Ramuel Reyes BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ DELGADO Editor-in-Chief crodriguezdelgado@therampageonline.com
A student veteran gives salute on Jan. 28, 2015. Photo/ Ramuel Reyes
A plan years in the making, is finally realized -- the Veterans Resource Center at Fresno City College opened in Building A on Jan. 28. A campus ceremony outside Building A marks the beginning of a new chapter for student veterans at FCC. A ribbon cutting means a Veterans Resource Center is now open for business and the more than 450 veterans attending FCC under the GI Bill have a place to call their own for many years to come. Now student veterans at the college have a 2,200 square foot home away from home. It is a place where all their needs -- from academic advising to counseling -- can be met by staff who understand their specific needs. Confusion and uncertainty about when a resource center for veterans would be estab-
lished and where it would be located, combined with a budget crisis that set the college back, had nearly doomed this project many years ago. “When we started this whole process, it was about four years ago,” said Chris Villa, vice-president of student services. “Part of the problem was we were dealing with a budget crisis.” The college administration’s unwavering support and a more stable budget thrust the project forward. “Fresno City College is proud to realize this dream of providing a first class center for our veteran students,” said Tony Cantu, president. “[The college] has always been proud to be a part of the effort to serve veterans by providing comprehensive services.”
New Center Offers: Veterans certification office Tutorial services Counseling services Psychological services Conference room Six computer stations An area for relaxing and socializing with other veterans
l SEE VETERANS’ CENTER ON PAGE 5
State Center Community College District
ASG SETS SEMESTER GOALS BY KATHYA CASTRO
Reporter kcastro@therampageonline.com
The Associated Student Government at Fresno City College are in the process of developing many new and exciting programs to make the student experience here at FCC more enjoyable. There has been discussions of replacing blackboard with a whole new program and creating a safe place for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students. Since one of the focus is to provide a better way of
communication between the students and teachers there is talk of possibly changing blackboard in April to one of two programs: moodle or canvas. Alongside the Distance Education Committee, Senator Ruby Ruiz will be attending a four day conference from Sunday-Wednesday regarding the possible change of blackboard. She will be representing the California Community
l SEE ASG ON PAGE 4
POLLS VIDEOS
Fresno City College is an
LGBTQ SAFE SPACE A CAMPUS-WIDE NETWORK OF ALLIES TRAINED TO SUPPORT LGBTQ STUDENTS, STAFF, AND VISITORS Logo for the soon to be implemented LGBTQ Safe spaces. Photo Courtesey/Jerry Thurston
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PHOTOS STORIES
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RAMPAGE STAFF Editor-in-Chief Cresencio Rodriguez Delgado News Editor Production Manager Patrick Forrest Arts & Entertainment Editor Copy Chief Jasmine Yoro Opinion Editor Charlotte MacKay Sports Editor Keaundrey Clark Photo Editor Daisy Rodriguez Ramuel “Ram” Reyes Reporters Albertina Rodriguez Alexandria Bobadilla Alyssa Garza Angela Tuttle Caleb Owens-Garrett Ceasia Green Chad Horne Christopher Del Castillo Chueyee Yang Corey Parsley David Chavez Donald Promnitz Elias Cardenas Kageanna Garza Kathya Castro Savanna Manzo Tylisha Riley Rampage Advisor/Instructor Dympna Ugwu-Oju
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CANTU: OBAMA’S CC PLAN IS ‘A MOVE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION’ Responsible students get to go to community college free BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ DELGADO Editor-in-Chief crodriguezdelgado@therampageonline.com
At his State of the Union Address, President Barack Obama sent Congress a “bold” plan to lower the cost of community college -- to zero. If the president’s plan gets passed, elimination of tuition would be granted for students who “take responsibility for their education, earn good grades, and stay on track to graduate.” “I want to spread that idea across America,” Obama said. “So that community college becomes as free and universal in America as high school is today.” The proposal by President Barack Obama would grant students the opportunity to gain access to higher education at no cost to them. On Jan. 9, the White House unveiled “America’s College Promise Proposal” -- a plan that aims to grant “tuition-free” community college for “responsible students”. According to a White House press release, this would mean that if all states in the union participate, “an estimated nine million [students] could benefit,” saving the average full-time student about $3,800 alone in tuition costs per year. According to the proposal fact sheet, “federal funding will cover three-quarters of the average cost of community college.” From there, any state wishing to participate, will be expected to contribute the remaining funds necessary to eliminate the cost of tuition at a community college for eligible students. Paige Casey, a full-time Nursing student at Fresno City College is one example of how this plan could help many students who would eventually enroll at a community college. “I put getting books before eating,” Casey said. “I struggled to get food just to pay for my books.” Affording a college education is difficult for Casey even though she works on the side. “I pay for everything, I pay rent, I pay for my food, I work and go to school,” Casey said. Fresno City College President, Tony Cantu agrees with Obama. “Providing free access to a community college education is a move in the right direction,” Cantu said. “We will be watching closely as the president’s proposal makes its way through Congress.” As stated in the White House press release, “students who attend at least half-time, maintain a 2.5 GPA while in college and make steady progress toward completing their program will have their tuition eliminated.” Doug Sholders, a student-veteran at FCC studying social work says that a plan like this could generate some negative comments and ideas but knows many students like him support the president’s proposal. “You’re always going to have an issue with negativity with things like that,” Sholders said. “But for the most part, I think that 90 percent would be right on and righteous.” This story was contributed in part by Angela Tuttle.
r Th ep man e m m y Su
I know that some people can’t afford it and some people can, but it’s a great opportunity for those who actually want to go somewhere in their lives.
Pedro Torres
Everyone’s going to be able to have an education. So the rich won’t be the only ones who can have power with educational opportunities.
E r i c Z a m o ra
How it would work
Federal funding will cover three-quarters of the average cost of community college. States that choose to participate will be expected to contribute the remaining funds necessary to eliminate community college tuition for eligible students.
New Designated Smoking Rules Ignored BY CHARLOTTE MACKAY
Opionion Editor cmackay@therampageonline.com
Fresno City College’s much anticipated designated smoking areas finally went into effect On Jan. 1, 2015. The “Designated Smoking Area” signs and reminders of the new rule were posted last semester, but when students returned for the spring semester, smokers puffed away, largely ignoring the signs. Still, no one has been cited, reprimanded or punished for flouting the rules. The new smoking zones include the parking lots near the tennis courts, Ratcliffe Stadium, the west lawn of the Old Administration Building and the patio pit in front of the library. Unfortunately, since the passing of the legislation, very little change has been made. Although it was believed that the areas would go into effect during fall 2014, nothing was officially carried out until the beginning of this year. While many students retreat to these designated smoking areas to smoke, clouds of both cigarette and vape smoke continue to fill breezeways and sidewalks that are supposed to be smoke free. “We could run ad campaigns, we could put signs up, we could do all kind of things and you would still have people walking in like what are you talking about?” said SCCCD Police Chief Bruce Hartman. “We could even mail it to them.” Many students are questioning why no one seems to be enforcing rules that have taken years and energy to enact. “As a smoker, I’d say no, don’t enforce it because I wouldn’t want to get caught,” said Tony Smith, FCC student. “ I don’t know what the penalty would be.” Both smokers and nonsmokers say they like the rules to create designated smoking areas on campus. The legislation to create smoking-only areas has been under consideration since 2004, but it wasn’t until spring 2013 that the FCC Academic Senate finally approved the proposal. “I like them...because I can smoke,” Eboni Castano, FCC student said. “I think that’s cool.” Health and Safety Officer Joseph Diebert said that enforcement can be difficult. “There’s not really any way,” he said. “If it’s the desire of the campus as a whole, it could
be, but it’s going to consume a lot of resources to do it; It may not benefit.” For many individuals on campus, there are more important issues at hand than who is smoking where. “You have to find that middle point.,” said Hartman. “We are not here to drop the hammer persey; we are here to educate too on both sides and if you are doing something we need to make sure that you are aware of it.” Campus police are making it their priority to educate before they cite. While it is important to enforce the designated smoking areas, it is more important make sure everyone on campus knows they exist. Additionally, students, especially smokers, may feel they are given contradictory messages. Every building on campus still displays signs that read “No smoking within 20 feet of this building.” The signs are still there, causing much confusion. “I just kind of assume that if I’m 20 feet away from the building then I can smoke,” Castano said. The newly established designated smoking areas are much farther than 20 feet away from buildings. Therefore, if smokers only abide by the 20 feet rule and disregard the designated smoking areas, they are most likely not following the rules. “There you are in violation of an actual law,” said Hartman. “That is something that has to be posted under state law.” But according to Hartman, campus police has less control over the consequences regarding the designated smoking areas than they do over the 20 foot parameters. With regard to the specific smoking areas, disciplinary actions fall into the the hands of Vice President of Student Services, Chris Villa. Though with no case being presented, it is unclear what actions Vice President Villa would take should an issue arise. “The areas enforcement, to be determined,” Diebert said, “are down the road possibly.”
Spring 2015 Smoking areas go into effect
Fall 2014 Legislation passed, areas established
2010-11
ASG votes on the legislation
2004
Legislation first proposed
FCC NOT CHOSEN TO OFFER BACHELOR’S
Students who attend at least half-time, maintain a 2.5 GPA while in college, and make steady progress toward completing their program. Community colleges will be expected to offer programs that fully transfer to local public fouryear colleges and universities, and occupational training programs with high graduation rates that lead to degrees and certificates.
UP IN SMOKE
Scott Gross exhales a puff of smoke in one of the new designated smoking areas at Fresno City College on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2014. Photo/Ramuel Reyes
BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ DELGADO Editor-in-Chief crodriguezdelgado@therampageonline.com
Growing up, I’ve always expected myself to go to college - a four-year like Stanford or UCLA. But coming from a low-income family, that’s why I like the idea of a free education. I get to find myself out.
White House Office of the Press Secrety
Photos/Daisy Rodriguez
Fifteen community colleges in the state of California are now allowed to offer bachelor’s degrees -- degrees otherwise only offered at a University of California or California State University. Fresno City College was among 34 colleges who applied for a potential four-year degree. Fresno City College’s Dental Hygiene proposal was not chosen but two other colleges -- West Los Angeles College and Foothill College -- who also applied for a Dental Hygiene four-year degree program, were approved. “We are, of course, disappointed
that our proposal was not accepted.” said FCC President Tony Cantu. There are currently 900 graduates of the Dental Hygiene program at Fresno City College according to the Dental Hygiene Academic Chair, Joanne Pacheco. “Based on the access to dental care issue that is going on in dentistry, Fresno City College administration is very supportive and for that reason, I thought that we had a chance,” said Joanne Pacheco, a few hours before the decision by the California Community College Board of Governors. Pacheco praised FCCs administration for the support they gave along the way and said, “by FCC applying, it shows that we are current in the
knowledge of what is going on.” If the program had been chosen and Fresno City College offered a bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene, this would mean that most if not all of the 900 graduates of the program would have the opportunity to return to college and advance their career. Jenni Garcia, 33, is one of many graduates who would have taken advantage of the opportunity. “With an advanced degree, there is more opportunity to have a little variety in your career,” Garcia said. Garcia’s interest in pursuing a career in Dental Hygiene came when she “ended up by accident working at a dental office as a receptionist.” After not knowing what to do with
herself, she would soon enroll at Fresno City College -- this time, in the Dental Hygiene program. It took Garcia two years to complete her degree in Dental Hygiene. Garcia says that a bachelor’s degree at Fresno City College would benefit not just those pursuing a career in Dental Hygiene. “I think it would have done a lot for Fresno City College,” Garcia said. “And drawing more students and showing the excellence of Fresno City College and what a great institution it is.” Pacheco says that despite the decisions made by the California Community College Board of Governors, “It was a very positive move for the profession.”
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NEWS
2.4.2015 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
STUDENTS UNAWARE OF HEALTH BENEFITS BY PATRICK FORREST
News Editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
Fresno City College makes students pay for lots of different things that many of the students on campus never even attempt to learn about or use. Health Services, a program funded by the $19 health fee charged to students enrolled in credit courses during registration. Assist students with an array of health related topics that may grab their attention. “A lot of times people will hear about something and they will get very concerned but in reality they have a very low risk factor,” said Lisa Chaney Health Services coordinator at Fresno City College. “We can make sure that you’ve had the proper steps and that you are going to be okay.” With recent outbreaks and potential to measles in Fresno, the health services office has to stay up to date to be sure that they are able to assist in the many ways that students and faculty may need. “We do have [the measles vaccine] as well as, on our website a rash page, so that you can see what measles looks like,” said Chaney. “It’s very contagious so if you aren’t fully immunized then it is very easy to get.” Health services can see a student
for a variety of reasons while there are on campus. Whether it be answering health related questions, Pregnancy test, vision; hearing and blood pressure test, coordinating insurance claims for students with campus related injuries. “We are always looking for new and innovative ways to serve the campus,” Chaney said. “So if a student were to come in and say ‘I think you should do this’ then we would look into ways that we could do that.” Also Registered Dietician, Stephanie Annett will be coming to FCC on Fridays from 8am- 12pm to discuss a variety of topics including Dietary Assessment, Body fat testing, Cholesterol lowering, High blood pressure and other General nutrition concerns. “Anyone can book an appointment with her for nutritional counseling,” Chaney said. “Anyone who wants to find ways to get a healthier diet or just a healthier way to do things.” Though health services are not the only amenity offered on FCC’s campus. The Psychological Services office, SC-216 right above the bookstore, is always an option for students dealing with stress or any other mental struggle of college.
BY ELIAS CARDENAS
Reporter ecardenas@therampageonline.com
l CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 rassed or bullied. The project is being coordinated by Jerry Thurston who has been a communication instructor here at Fresno City College since 2003. “A safe zone project is a network of people on campus who have been trained to understand the lgbtq issues specifically” says Jerry Thurston By definition of UCLA the mission for the program is “A safe zone is a campus wide network of faculty, staff, and students, who serve as first points of contact for memeber of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community who need a safe caring individual with whom to talk or who may require additional information” The long term goal for the program is to make the whole campus a safe space with equal rights and treatment for all of our students. If all goes well the Fresno City safe space program will be taken into action by the beginning of March. This story was contributed in part by Alyssa Garza.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CALENDAR
logical services office student assistant. “The entire goal is to help people and reduce the shame in asking for help and it’s just another great way to do that.” But once Psychological services puts a smile on your face you’ll want to make sure it looks good with the Dental Hygiene clinic. Run entirely by students of the dental hygiene program under the supervision of licensed dental hygienist, the dental hygiene clinic offers students and community members a cheaper alternative to the high price of getting their teeth checked and cleaned. “An appointment for these services at a dentist office could run thousands of dollars, here we only cost $30,” said Dental Hygiene program chair Joanne Pachecco. “The only caveat is that you have to trade that saving of money for spending of time.” Since the clinic and all of its patients are handled by students being supervised most appointments are estimated to last between 2 to 4 hours. “We have great students in our program,” Pachecco said. “Who are getting top of the line hands-on experience.”
College marks start of black history month
ASG
College District and will have a vote in behalf of any of the the two programs moodle, canvas, or to stay with blackboard. Due to new technology if the new change is passed teachers will need to take training to adjust and learn the new way of communication. However, according to Senator Ruiz teachers are concerned about the transition due to many of them not even being fully acquainted with Blackboard. Research was done by ASG senator Ruiz and it was found that “they like blackboard right now because Fresno State also uses blackboard and it would be an easy transition for them to use blackboard at State other than learning a whole new website” Regardless if a website is in fact chosen there will be a software update done to Blackboard Something else to look forward to is a new program by the name of the Fresno City safe space program which allows lgbt students to have somewhere to go when being ha-
“Psychological Services has the reputation that it is has and is recognized throughout the state as a model program,” said FCC President, Tony Cantu. One of the various resources offered from the Psychological Services office is the wellness app designed to assist students in the everyday battle of staying well. Along with the app, the office is open for any student who would want to schedule an appointment to speak with one of the many qualified interns that work in the office. “The college that I was completing hours with before this I saw mainly anxiety and depression but here we see a bit more of everything,” said Psychological Services Intern, Gregory Crawford. “That’s mostly because this is such a diverse campus.” The psychological services office also offers their wellness app to assist students with health wise decisions while they are not on the campus and to help spread the word about how to reduce the stigma surrounding the topic of mental health. “The wellness app is an important tool for us,” said Sarah Hayes, Psycho-
Fresno City College on Monday launched the 2015 African American History month celebrations during opening ceremonies in the Old Administration Building Auditorium. Dottie Smith, the former secretary of the State Center Community College District board of trustees, gave students a blueprint for success. “Don’t shoot down your opportunities; don’t shoot down your integrity,” Smith said. “Don’t shoot down your character; don’t shoot down who you are and your purpose of being here.” Continuing her inspirational message, Smith said, “You will not be able to breathe if you shoot those things down, because you won’t have a life.” Smith also expressed disappointment at the dismal attendance and questioned why instructors did not bring “history students, social science students [and] English students” their classes to the event. “To me, it is a travesty,” she said. Throughout February, the African American Faculty and Staff Association will host programs which relate to the black experience and introduce strong important topics the college community should never forget, said Gennean Bolen, president of the association. Bolen said that Black History
Month is a celebration of life and accomplishments, “to unite like minded individuals and expose the many successful lives of many African Americans throughout our history.” The events include film screening and speeches; the first three Wednesdays, the film “Hidden Colors” parts I, II and III will be shown at the OAB auditorium, starting at 3:30 p.m. Faculty, staff and student volunteers wore “I can’t breathe” and “Black lives matter” T-shirts which they will also be given out at events throughout the month. The first Black History Month was honored in 1915, 50 years after the 13th Amendment ended slavery in the U.S. First called “Negro History Week,” it was officially changed to National African American History Month in 1976. Among speakers scheduled to speak are Angela Wright, Dr Joseph L. White and Ernie Hudson. “Freeway” Rick Ross will speak on how he turned his life around for the better. The messages from the speakers will be a mix of reality and common sense advice. Cindy Dunn, VP of the African-American Faculty and Staff, said Ross’ presentation will be “ about encouraging young students on how to not get involved with that lifestyle.” This story was contributed in part by Chueyee Yang.
2/2 Opening Ceremoney OAB Auditorium 9:30-12:30
2/3 Film Presentation OAB Auditorium 9:30-5:30
2/4 Thomas Ellis OAB 251 11:30-1:00
2/5 Homer Greene Discussion OAB 251 11:00-1:00
2/6 Malik Simba OAB 251 11:30-1:00
2/9
2/10 Joseph White OAB 251 11:30-1:00
2/11 Brother Muhammad OAB 126 10:00-12:00
2/12
2/13
2/16
2/17 Film Presentation OAB Auditorium 9:30-5:30
2/18 Ernie Hudson OAB Auditorium 8:00-1:00
2/19 Angela Wright OAB 251 11:30-2:30
2/20 Geanine Bolen Discussion OAB 251 11:00-1:00
2/23 Manu Ampim OAB 251 11:00-12:30
2/24 Film Presentation OAB Auditorium 9:30-5:30
2/25 Hasan Johnson OAB 251 11:00-12:30
2/26 Kehinde Solwazi OAB 251 11:30-3:30
2/27 K. Solwazi Discussion OAB 251 11:00-1:00
NEWS
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 2.4.2015
l CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Doug Sholders, a student veteran said he made a choice to return to college to continue his education and that news of the new resource center on campus made his decision easier and worth it. “‘I’m almost 60 years old,” Sholders said. “I’ve made a choice to come back to school to get a degree in social work.” Sholders, despite not having official certification, says he has been a counselor for 10 years and pursuing a degree in social work will give him that certification. “I’ve got a teaching credential through [the City of Fresno] because I’ve already taught at Cesar Chavez and the Fresno Rescue Mission,” Sholders said. He says that with his experience and the new veteran resource center on campus, he will be able to put his
Veterans’ Center college career on the right track. Sholders added that he, like most veterans, often return to college with little motivation and that the resource center will provide that motivation. “A lot of [veterans] come back and honestly, they don’t want to do anything,” Sholders said. “They got no real direction.” Sholders said with some direction offered by the new resource center, “[Veterans] would be a heck of a better off.” He said that student veterans want the new center to be much more than about receiving guidance and setting their coursework on the right track. Sholders remembers the long waiting lines, “six people in the lobby and me,” Sholders says. “But now, there’s a waiting place and they’re going to be seen faster because they’re getting more than just one veteran represen-
tative.” Mario Reposo, a student veteran counselor at FCC and a representative of the veterans resource center, said that the center gives veterans on campus the ability to express themselves and also gives the rest of the students on campus a better understanding of an otherwise forgotten community. “It’s a place for them to heal and connect with the campus,” Reposo said. “I hope more veterans on campus will utilize our services.” Reposo says that while people may have a certain perspective of student veterans, “It’s not black and white; we’re all very different.” According to Reposo, student veterans attending FCC and the State Center Community College District, come from diverse religions, ethnic and social backgrounds. “They are as diverse as the non-vet-
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eran population,” Reposo said. Whether a veteran is Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Mexican, European, Chinese, lesbian, gay, straight or transgender, the only thing that sets them apart, Reposo said, is the fact that they have given years of service to their country, putting their safety and futures on the line. “They have spent birthdays and holidays thousands of miles away from family and friends,” Reposo said. “They shouldn’t be pitied, just appreciated.” Reposo hopes student veterans will get well acquainted with the center. “It’s a gathering place for veterans here on campus,” Reposo said. “When veterans get together, they talk about veteran issues, they talk about programs that will help each other; they’re very close.” This story was contributed in part by Angela Tuttle and Alex Bobadilla.
CORRECTION
In the Dec. 3, 2014 issue of the Rampage, Mario Reposo was described as having suffered“injured shoulders, back problems and broken bones.” That information is inaccurate.
The sign depicting the way to Building A’s Veteran Resource Center just after the opening celebration Jan. 28, 2015. Photo/Ramuel Reyes
FCC President Tony Cantu is joined by other administrators during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the opening of the Veteran Resource Center on Jan. 28, 2015. Photo/Ramuel Reyes
WOMEN’S SOCCER COACH WINS NATIONAL HONOR BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
Fresno City College Women’s Soccer Coach Oliver Germond was honored by the National Soccer Coaches Association as the National Coach of the Year on January 16, 2015 The team had a 22-1-2 record, a school record for wins in a season. Germond took his team to the state final four, losing an overtime battle to the State Champs Cerritos College. The Rams finished the season ranked sixth in the nation. “It’s an amazing feeling, very privileged and thankful to be part of such an amazing program and school in FCC,” Germond said. “It makes me
proud of how hard we work to make the program successful.” Germond received the award at the annual NSCAA Awards Banquet in Philadelphia. “Pele was at the dinner,” Germond said. “It was an amazing night.” In his 14 years at FCC, Germond has an overall record of 236-60-31, 11 conference titles and 11 conference coach-of-the-year awards. This year, the Rams had two players Freshman Alyssa Lugo and Sophomore Maricruz Chapa named All-Americans. Lugo was a First Team All-American. Chapa was a second team All-American.
Oliver Germond Career - 236 wins at FCC - 11 Conference titles - 11 coach of the year awards - coached 11 All-Americans since 2005 - 58 of his players have transfered since he began at FCC Women’s Head Soccer Coach Oliver Germone. Photo/Rampage Archieve
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&E
2.4.2015
Beneath the Real -Powerful display of beauty Reporter kcastro@therampageonline.com
Sculptor Wesley Wright wants to share his love of life with the rest of the world. “Being alive is a really amazing thing that we should stop to reflect on and try to understand and celebrate,” Wright said. The environmentalist wants to accomplish this through his ceramic sculptures, some of which are currently on display at the Fresno City College’s Art Space Gallery. The Wesley Wright exhibition -“Beneath the Real” -- ends on Feb. 19. Wright’s exhibit, features various pieces and series of his artwork, notably “Metamorphosis”, “Humanity” and a few of his recent work. He uses a distinct approach and a number of techniques to explore and discover what it is like to live in this time and age. Overall, Wright does an excellent job of portraying real life situations in a way that captures the audience’s attention and creates awareness of the environment. He manages to find beauty in the rugged and in the different, and
accomplishes all with humor. In “Providence of Scarcity” Wright uses stoneware to create a beauty in the sometimes overlooked Rhinoceros, showing that beauty can be found in all things and places. Wright’s art captures an imaginative interpretation of the world. Altogether, “Beneath the Real” is creative and authentic, something not found in many contemporary artists. Wright attended Humboldt State University where he first gained an interest in ceramics and then acquired a Master of Fine Arts Degree from San Jose State University. He currently has his own studio in Oakland where he produces most of his art. Wright hopes people connect with his art. “There is a raw motivation to entertain people,” he said. “Every person has a desire to be understood and to express themselves.” Additional information on Wright and his work can be found at wesleytwright. com or on his instagram page at @wesleytwrightart.
Wesley T Wright’s “Shh!”, one of the many sculptures that were displayed on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2015 in the Art Space Gallery. Photo/ Ramuel Reyes
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What is your connection with Fresno City College?
A.
My friend Randy Brico used to teach ceramics there. I went to graduate school shortly after him at San Jose State, and we were friends there
A.
I wouldn’t call it an industry; art is more of a lifestyle in a way, but I always did art. I guess it just always felt like the thing I was best at and enjoyed the most, and so ever since I can remember, I planned to be some kind of artist so I couldn’t really say specifically when.
Being alive is a really amazing thing that we should stop to reflect on and try to understand and celebrate.
Q.
A.
A.
What is your favorite creation?
My favorite creation would have to be a piece called “Autonomous” which is a life sized sea turtle hybrid creature which has a bio dome on its back and is based on a number of different myths. I’m really interested in the mythology of different cultures and I take mythological stories from different cultures and often combine them in my work; so it’s based partly on a myth of Native Americans, a Hindu myth and the story of Noah’s Ark. I’m taking these mythological ideas and putting them into modern context, so this piece is sort of an environmentally based piece.
A.
A.
Q.
What would you like to tell people through your art?
a human connection through the piece by making its eye look very human to provoke empathy from the viewer.
Q.
Q.
There is a raw motivation to entertain people. Every person has a desire to be understood and to express themselves. I think it’s almost a natural human trait and to share the things you are excited about, also to express ideas that I think are important.
Wesley T Wright’s “Beneath the Real” was showcased in the Art Space Gallery at Fresno City College on Jan. 27, 2015. Photo/Ramuel Reyes
A.
Q.
What is the motivation for your art pieces?
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Yep, that sums it up.
Q.
How did you start in the Art Industry?
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Q.
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Now let’s review:
&E Wesley T. Wright -- A Quest to be Understood
2.4.2015 BY KATHYA CASTRO
BY KATHYA CASTRO
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What is your favorite piece from Beneath the Real?
“Providence of Scarcity”. Conceptually, the motivation for it is a concern for the wellbeing of the environment and rhinoceros being an indicator of the faith of the environment because of them being killed and people trying to harvest their horn and emphasizing the rugged beauty of the rhino by exaggerating skin and creating floral embellishments on the skin and trying to create
What inspired “Who Pulls the Strings?”
It’s based on a book called “Self Comes to Mind”. The idea of the book is that if we are composed of billions of cells but yet have a singular consciousness, then which one of those cells is in the driver’s seat and which is the one that you call yourself and determines the decisions you make and how they come together to create your consciousness.
Q.
What’s next in your career?
A.
I just got a studio; a life work loft in a warehouse that I’ve been making a lot of work in, and it’s kind of the beginning of a new stage in my career and in my life. I’m just continuing to create work and continuing to explore what is like to live in this and age and continuing to educate
Q.
What advice would you give to an aspiring artist?
A.
Work really really hard, be as authentic as you can and form genuine relationships with the people in the art community.
Wesley T Wright’s piece titled “Who Pulls the Strings”, one of the many sculptures that were showcased on Friday, Jan. 27, 2015, in the Art Space Gallery. Photo/Ramuel Reyes
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A&E
2.4.2015 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
“If symbolism is everything, why is there not one rainbow flag for equality on campus to encourage acceptance of differences? What message does this send to gays --that we are not equally valued on campus?.”
BY ELIAS CARDENAS
Nineteen-year-old Yajaira Garcia, a Fresno City College student, stands out from the crowd with her great smile and colorful outfit. Dressed in a bright blue Forever 21 jacket you could see the confidence she has walking around campus. The first-year FCC student pulls inspiration from daily life, from movies to her favorite celebrities. She describes her style as “bohemian and odd.” Garcia pinned Vanessa Hudgens as her main style crush, also stating “chic” as a factor in her daily style equation. Garcia enjoys the fashion forwardness of Audrey Hepburn’s character Holly Golightly in from the ‘60s classic “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”; a considerably not-so common name to the average FCC student. “She’s so fashion forward, very chic! Especially her hair, clothing and makeup, it’s so simple, clean and crisp” said Garcia. Garcia loves mixing bold colors with any print she can get ahold of. This spring she’s hoping ‘70s aesthetics makes a comeback in nation-wide fashion trends.
“You can be comfortable and still look cute.” -Garcia As a lover of all seasons, winter takes the cake in her book. Scarves are the liberal studies major’s signature item because “you can be comfy and still look cute, especially because of the scarves!”. Garcia will wear them in any color and or print; from tribal to patchwork, nothing is off limits.
Garcia loves looking for new items no one else has. Yard sales and thrift shops are her goto places for rare fashion finds to discover new pieces to amp up her wardrobe because “finding different things that are probably not in style right now but putting them together with something stylish is the best.” As a student and living on a budget, Garcia says staying stylish is saving up for something you can’t live without and advises to always buy clothing that has longevity.
-Chad Horne BY CHAD HORNE
Reporter chorne@therampageonline.com
Where are homosexuals gathering at Fresno City College? Is there a spot for gays to hang out? What are safe zones and do they exist? What Clubs could a student seeking a connection or simply a place to express his gay identity feel comfortable in? Without a doubt, the number of people openly identifying as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered has increased on campus. But there is still a gap that we all must deal with. Depending on whom you ask, the college struggles in many areas, including -showing support towards an openly gay campus -- a place
“You might not have the perfect body, but if you feel comfortable in it, then you should wear it!” -Garcia “If you feel like crap of course you’re going to want to match that mood. If you wake up feeling like Beyoncé, you’re going to be cat walking all day!” said Garcia. “I wish we can just wear whatever we wear and feel comfortable with our own bodies without being judged. You might not have the perfect body but if you feel confident in it then you should wear it!”
Yajaira’s Favorites
TV: One Tree Hill, Gossip Girl and Criminal Minds Movie: the Notebook and the Fault in our Stars Book: the Fault in our Stars and the Notebook Magazine: Seventeen Places in Fresno: Woodward Park and her home Can’t live without: food, makeup, family, music
Coat and necklace, Forever 21 Top, Lucky Leggings and umberella, Target Boots, Burlington
Yajaira Garcia. Photo/Ramuel Reyes
Movie Reviews The Wedding Ringer
The Boy Next Door
BY CEASIA GREEN
BY SAVANNA MANZO
Reporter cgreen@therampageonline.com
Reporter smanzo@therampageonline.com
“The Wedding Ringer” is one of the most comedic and entertaining movies this year, a strongly suggested must-see of 2015. Comedian Kevin Hart stars as businessman Jimmy Callahan who sells best man services to desperate grooms-to-be, like Doug Harris (Josh Gad). Doug and Jimmy end up gaining a great knowledge out of their business transaction, through a lot of good times and a whole lot of trouble making.
“The Boy Next Door” is a thriller with plenty of passion and violence that is not to be missed! “The Boy Next Door” stars Jennifer Lopez as Claire Peterson, a high school poetry teacher, indulging in a sexy scandal with 19-year-old high school student, Noah Sanborn (Ryan Guzman). After newly divorced Peterson meets Sanborn, she discovers he lives next door. Noah and Peterson’s son, Kevin (Ian Nelson), become very close and tension rises as Kevin notices chemistry between the unseemly sweethearts.
B
BY ANGELA TUTTLE
Reporter atuttle@therampageonline.com
“Blackhat” is a suspenseful thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat. The film is action packed with an extraordinary sense of mystery. The film starts upon meeting Chris Hemsworth as jailbird Nicholas Hathaway, under conviction for hacking. Hathaway’s get-out-of-jail-free card entails finding the hacker who blew up a major Chinese power plant; suspension builds as the risky manhunt ensues. After a series of less than fortunate events, Hathaway has to go on the run.
Comrades at Kuppajoe
Reporter cyang@therampageonline.com
Comrades, a Richmond, Virginia rock band, headlined at Kuppajoe All Ages Nightclub in Fresno, California on Jan. 30. Comrades consists of drummer Ben Trussell, Joe McElroy on guitar and wife Laura McElroy on bass guitar; they’ve been working together for six years. The trio performed a five-song set. “This has always been our passion since we were teenagers,” said Joe McElroy.
One of last shows
Joe and Laura McElroy saw how music could potentially influence others’ lives and Mr. McElroy said they “want to try to be encouraging.” Joe finds inspiration from people enjoying his music and benefits from it. “It makes me want to give 110 percent,” he said. Mr. McElroy loves “the energy that people have in the room,” and hopes to encourage people in a positive way through his music. In the future, he sees himself continuing his journey as a musician
and a possible father. Rochelle Washington, a returning Kuppajoe customer said she has been coming to shows for a long time and “it’s like a big family.” Costumer, Adam Lopez said, “I feel that it’s really inspiring to listen to all of the bands and be together and appreciate the music.” Toufu Vang, who attended the show says there is only one word to describe it -- amazing. “The environment is lively,” Vang said. “Everybody is friendly, and I got meet new people.”
More information on the band is available on facebook.com/ WeAreComrades or kuppajoe.com.
Kuppajoe All Ages Nightclub is scheduled to close down on Feb. 28. Their last show acts are Lakes, the Soma Holidays, the Sleepover Disaster, Brother Luke and the Comrades, and Swimming in Paint at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 20. For more info head to kuppajoe.com
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where everyone, staff, administrators, students and faculty, can live their lives openly, without concerns about repercussions. Being openly gay is hard for instructors as well as some students. Teachers and students who have medical conditions such as HIV are in hiding and afraid. An FCC instructor I met on a gay site said people “are concerned of retaliation on campus.” If symbolism is everything, why is there not one rainbow flag for equality on campus to encourage acceptance of differences? What message does this send to gays --that we are not equally valued on campus? Maybe, the intent is to make being openly gay on the FCC campus undesirable. What was once something of
pride has turned into a sexual stereotype. Who is being protected here: gays or homophobes? “I do not think there is a spot that gays can hang out openly on campus” says Jacob Madrigal FCC student. What type of attitude towards equality is encouraged at FCC? State antidiscrimination laws are clear about protection of gay rights. Beyond safety concerns, what type of activities is there on campus for newly out and open gays? The college offers only one questionably gay spot on campus and it is diversity club. The club does its best in engaging students, but that is grossly inadequate. Locating the diversity club during the first weeks of the semester was literally impos-
sible. Fliers for clubs on campus for 2015 with meeting places were not up to date. I was informed by staff that rooms were not yet assigned. No one from Diversity Club was available for comment or conversation. How are people supposed to join or support a club if they do not know where it meets? Without proper communication, gay students feel left out and isolated. “What good is anything if you can’t find it [Diversity Club]?” Joshua Forbes FCC student, expressed his disappointment at not being able to locate the group. Among the reasons to offer gays a strong identity on campus is to start breaking stereotypes, boundaries and group classifications which is not easy. Gays on campus
come in different forms -break down into very diverse categories, more than able to fit in this story, some include: out, closeted, down low, transexual, bear, cub, chaser, twink, even a couple of emo goth gays. Stigma behind the words can hurt us and makes other students afraid of being in any association with gays. Anything not openly accepted is segregated into categories; humans are not simple; we are all complex individuals and all children of God. What benefits will making FCC a more openly accepting place for gays? Improving open tolerance towards homosexuality should always be at a forefront of everyone’s mind. If other students are not open, out, or accepting of others’ differences then the college is not working towards a change. Regardless, we must stay optimistic. “Your own freedom, be who you are. I’m not ashamed of it. I am proud of who I am,” said student Phanecia Nevarec on why she is open about being gay on campus. “Just being another openly gay person helps others see that you’re normal.”
ONLINE DATING TAKES AWAY JITTERS, ANXIETIES
Blackhat
B B+ l FOR FULL REVIEWS GO TO THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
BY CHUEYEE YANG
OPINION
FCC -- NOT GAY-FRIENDLY
Staying fashionable on a student’s budget Reporter ecardenas@therampageonline.com
2.4.2015
BY CHARLOTTE MACKAY
Opinion Editor cmackay@therampageonline.com
Remember the days of sweaty-palmed confrontations and spontaneous first dates; of face-to-face intimacy and lustful relationships? Match.com debuted as the first website to offer online dating in 1995. While the website has remained true to its name for the last 20 years, the industry in and of itself is nothing like it used to be. The dating scene has been transformed by the technological world. In today’s culture, text messages have become more appropriate than phone calls and secret admirers have been replaced by usernames. And in an age of submitting essays via email and taking tests online, there is no surprise that digital dating is appealing to college students. But does it work? Online dating puts more fish in the sea and fills a void lost in the hectic lifestyle of a
college student. As full-time students, we have very little time to spare, as we are often preoccupied with school, work and our personal lives. If we can’t sleep, let alone shower, under what circumstances will we schedule a date with anyone other than Netflix? Online dating is just easier. We can hide behind our computer screens and spare ourselves public humiliation if things don’t go well. There’s also the extra perk of not being judged for neglecting to brush our teeth. But
allowing lazy, single students to meet people without having to leave the comfort of one’s bed and put on appropriate date attire, takes away the intimacy and romance found in the traditional dating scene. Successful relationships among youth are rare. Instead, we find hooking up and having “friends with benefits” much more appealing than confessing our love for one another and showing vulner-
ability. The vast majority of the individuals who are interested in today’s “Hot or Not,” “OkCupid,” and “Tinder/Grindr” are not the same people with online profiles on Match.com, eHarmony, and ChristianMingle. The sites created for younger people were created by other young people, and whether or not these sites are advertised as successful matchmaking sites, they were established both by and under the “hookup culture.” For most of these sites, w e
can sift through profiles (the profile being just a picture) as quickly as we can turn the page of a magazine. If we don’t find someone aesthetically appealing, we simply move onto the next one, with a chance of never seeing the rejected again. Although this technique is what some would say efficient, it is completely unreliable. Depending on the site’s algorithm, individuals match together based on profiles. Most profiles consist of 500 characters or less (that is usually the count limit) and blurry, personal photographs. From there if one person matches with another, the two can exchange flirtatious messages and such, until a face-toface rendez-vous is arranged. But through this digital interaction, the essence of the first date is lost. While online dating allows for us to get to know people before we actually meet them, it detracts from awkward blind dates or love at first sight. Although online dating no longer holds the stigma as the haven for those who cannot meet people the natural way, it is now seen as a security blanket, to comfort those who fear the dating scene. So, I’d like to say online dating works, and maybe it does among the older crowd, but there is little to be desired for college students.
A profile on the online Dating App, Tinder. Photo/Ramuel Reyes.
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OPINION
2.4.2015 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
All must work together to stop future terrorism
BY DONALD PROMNITZ
Reporter dpromnitz@therampageonline.com
Since the “Charlie Hebdo” shooting that occurred on Jan. 7, “Je suis Charlie,” or I am Charlie, has become the new motto for free speech worldwide. After the attack, the Charlie Hebdo magazine released an image of Muhammad holding a sign with the slogan. The caption above it read: “Tout est pardonne” -you are forgiven. But a sizable portion of
the Islamic world does not seem interested in accepting the magazine’s forgiveness. In fact, not two weeks after these attacks, riots sparked in Niger, with eight churches burned down and 10 innocent people killed. In other parts of the Muslim world, protests were held not for the victims, but against what they say is the magazine’s insensitivity to Muslim practices. They carried signs which read: “You are Charlie; I am Mohammed. #noapologies” Now there’s been debate to censor criticism against Islam. Pope Francis even went as far as to say that “you cannot provoke, you cannot insult the faith of others. You cannot make fun of the faith of others,” somehow mistaking satire against terrorists as insulting the faith of others. Organizations like the Council on American-Islamic relations cry “Islamophobia” when scrutiny arises, and there has even been a call to have criticism censored as hate speech. Never mind that criticisms and insults against
“Though we wish to keep our lives and reputations safe, we must accept the fact that the truth is not always politically correct.” -Donald Promnitz every other religion are par for the course. President Obama, Prime Minister David Cameron, and even French President Francois Hollande have all insisted that the actions of groups such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS are contrary to the Islamic faith, and that these are the works of a radical fringe. But is it true? And should we censor our criticisms? Only if we are cowards. While it is true that the attacks do not represent the average Muslim next door, the idea that they are from a small minority is not a claim that holds water, especially when we look at the statistics. According to a poll conducted by Newsweek, 16 percent of muslims in France actually support ISIS militants, while a similar poll by the
“Sunday Telegraph” showed that 40 percent of muslims in Great Britain supported Sharia law, which demands amputations of hands for theft and stoning for adultery. In the U.S., a survey by the Pew Research Center found that 13 percent of muslims feel that violence towards non-Muslims was justified. In the week that spanned Jan. 24 to Jan. 31 alone, there were 61 terror attacks by Muslim extremists and six suicide bombings in 13 countries, resulting in 508 deaths. This is hardly a fringe in the faith; these numbers are big, and they’re growing. Though we wish to keep our lives and reputations safe, we must accept the fact that the truth is not always politically correct. When we see violence and
hatred from a growing group, we cannot silently stand by and make excuses for those who resort to terror to publicize their messages. If we do, then we are no better than those who stood down and let fascist governments usurp their nations. Likewise, for all those muslims who read this, the ones who say that they represent the “true Islamic faith,” it is your responsibility to stand up with us. Many are already, but they’re voices are drowned out by the anger of your brothers. It is you, the nonviolent Muslims, who must be the reformers of your faith. We must not work to appease evil in the press or on the streets. It is in the face of such murderous men that our voices must ring the loudest. We owe it to those killed, to defend and uphold the truth for all to see No more excuses, no more lies, no more running. Je suis Charlie.
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
BY COREY PARSLEY
Reporter cparsley@therampageonline.com
Free community college will mean one less thing to stress about. From car repairs to monthly bills, juggling needs and survival has all been a gigantic headache, until now. The good news, broadcast at the State of the Union address on Jan. 20, President Barack Obama’s free community college program for America. This proposal will give students the opportunity to enroll in college classes without the financial burden of student debt. “I want to spread that idea all across America, so that two years of college becomes as free and universal in America as high school is today,” said President Obama. Very much like high school, free community college will be paid for and covered by government funding. Not only will tuition be covered, but students won’t have to worry about other fees such as books, transportation and living accommodations. No more looking for the right prices on amazon. No more waiting for books to arrive. No more worrying about cutting back on your load because of low funds. Students will be able to relax, knowing that they are set for the semester. “Having to pay high prices for education isn’t fair,” said Obama. “It isn’t fair for them and it’s certainly not smart for our future.” In that sense he is right. The students are the future of this country and we must show it. Along with the new plan, Obama hopes to lower students’ current debts. Students have a vast
CON
BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
(Above) Sphomore point guard James O’Neal staring down his opponent. (Right) Freshman guard Blake Shelton drives to the basket against Columbia College at the FCC Gymnasuim Jan. 24 Photo/Daisy Rodriguez
BY CHRISTOPHER DEL CASTILLO Reporter cdelcastillo@therampageonline.com
The very thought of free educaamount of things to worry about tion sounds like a great idea. But on a day to day basis: homework, while it may be a game changer, it tests, work, friends, family, relacould just another empty promise tionships, etc. Financial burdens made by another president lookonly add stress to the hectic lifeing to raise his poll numbers. style of a college student. Just because it sounds pleasIt’s not fair that Fresno City ant doesn’t make it so. College students should Granted what President have to rely on financial Barack Obama proposed aid or pay out of pocket during the State of the for higher education that Union address was hiswill leave them saddled torical by all definitions, with huge debt. Eliminat- ““I’m sending this but too many have eming financial worry and Congress a bold new braced the idea of free debt from students is one plan to lower the cost community college far of the best move Obama of community college too quickly. has made as president. The question re“It invests in low- and to ZERO.” mains--who is going to middle-income students pay for it? and actually tries to keep It’s not a hard questhis conversation going,” said Jennifer Wang, a -President Barack tion and the answers are evident in so many ways. representative of the adJust follow the money. vocacy group Young InWithout a doubt, the vincibles. burden of this load will Americans for Tax Refall on taxpayers. form, a low tax favoring Right now, community college group, expressed some worry and education is free for the poorest that this change is, “indisputably students throughout the nation an income tax hike on middle class and the cost of their education is families with children.” covered by federal Pell Grants. It is possible there is resistance Seven out of 10 students pay to the plan because of fear of new less than $1,000 per year for comtaxes, but if anything, it would be munity college tuition, and nearminor. ly two out of five students have This is my last semester at grants that cover their entire tuia community college, and the tion bill. Obama plan won’t help me much, This new proposal will just put but if it can help current or future additional burden on the midstudents, then the main goal has dle-class who already forced to pay been met. high taxes to begin with. If it the plan is to help hardAnother area of concern is working students who represent whether or not the plan will actuthe future of this country, then it is more than worth it.
ally work. There is no evidence to show that it will be successful. We shouldn’t have to endure another promise that will only take more money out of the hands of our country. If taxes are destined to get higher, then this sucks the life out of the proposal. Then free is not free at all; everything comes with a price. What the president’s plan shows is how out touch the president is. For years we have witnessed taxpayers’ money wasted on pointless policies that do not benefit the American people. And now he has a proposed a new plan that will take years before it goes in effect. When is it going to end? Instead of giving free community college education, direct the money somewhere else, for a better cause. Like bettering the quality of community colleges by offering more classes and programs, and improving services -- longer library hours, state-of-the-art programs and equipment-- and adding more employment resources to prepare students for the workforce before they graduate. With all that we know, we shouldn’t believe that any of this is going to work. Free does a not mean free if someone else has to pay for it. It may sound harsh “but” it’s the truth. So, with all due respect, Mr. President, next time find another idea that can help real Americans because cannot carry one more burden than they already have.
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New Year? No problems.
FREE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
PRO
SPORTS
2.4.2015
The Fresno City College Rams are dominating into the new year with a new cast of characters with Head Coach Ed Madec, in his eight years at the helm. With 261 wins at the college, Madec is looking for another excellent year. “I think this team can be special,” Madec said. “They have the makings to be really special.“ With a record of 22-3 and ranked No.1 in the state, the Rams are on the verge of that special season. With a winning record over teams currently ranked in the top 20, there is no telling just how high the team can go. “A few things factor into how far we can go,” Madec said. “Health and improvement -- if we do those things, I think we’ll have a chance again.” Currently on a 13-game win streak, their last loss was on Dec.7 to Mt.San Antonio in the finals of the Mountie Classic. The Rams have 3 losses on the season, two to Mt. San Antonio, currently the No. 5 team in the state. “After that loss, we’ve been going hard, never getting complacent, and staying humble,” said Dejon Burdeaux, sophomore guard. The Rams continue to be balanced on offense. With five players averaging over 7 points and seven players averaging between 3 to 6 points a game, the Rams have a deep rotation this year. Sophomore Guard James O’neal has led the Rams this season with 11.3 points, 5.5 assists, and 1.4 steals a game. “As a point guard I like to get my teammates involved, and when we get slow of offense, I try and take over and help our team out,” O’neal said. In a key home game against Colum-
bia College on Jan. 24, the Rams got a huge game from Freshman Nick Hilton who came into the game shooting 4 of 25 from 3 point range in five previous games. “I had a few bad shooting games so I knew i was due for a good one,” said Hilton who hit a career high 6 three pointers for 18 points in the win. “I knew it would be a good night after I hit the first one,” he said. Under Madec, the Rams have won 8 straight Central Valley Conference championships, losing only two games while in the Conference in the past five seasons. They’ll be looking for their ninth this season, even if it is not the cleanest of wins. “The script changes each game depending on the opponent,” Madec said. “Sometimes, you have to win a little ugly.”
A Whole New World
Women’s Basketball Head Coach Brian Tessler during practice at the FCC Gymnasuim on Jan. 30. Photo/Daisy Rodriguez BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
The Fresno City College girl’s basketball team have had big shoes to fill this season . Coming into the season having lost star player Keyora Wharry as she transfered to a four year school and other veterans who left, this would be a new challenge for Head Coach Brian Tessler. “It’s been a season of learning for
both myself and my team. I’m coming off a season where I had a veteran team, and now for the first time in my community college coaching career I’m working with all freshmen.” Tessler said. Sitting at 17-8 and in 2nd place in the Central Valley Conference, the Rams have a lot to do to make it to the playoffs. “We’re looking forward to avenge some early season losses in the next few weeks,” said Freshman Forward
Malerie Crenshaw Some would say the 2014-15 season has been a “rebuilding” year for FCC, but Tessler views it another way. “I don’t view this season as a rebuilding year. At the community college level, I don’t believe in rebuilding years. That’s just an excuse to settle for mediocrity. I still feel this team has a high ceiling with regards to improvement. “ said Tessler Coaching a roster with all freshman is some new for Tessler, ”The lack of
experience for the young team in the beginning of the season had shown on the court, said Tessler “As of now, we have played 24 games, therefore we shouldn’t use our youth as an excuse.” Now he and his players are finally hitting their stride. “We had some obstacles and issues early on in the year but we’ve made tremendous progress,” said Tessler. The rams have been great in a few areas this season, especially defensively with 16.2 steals a game, good for 3rd in the state. On the offensive glass the rams rank 6th in the state with 19.3. The rams have also been shooting the ball v ery well this season making 7.6 3 point shots per game, good for 4th in the state. “I believe our team can still make a run at getting to the State Tournament. But, in order to do so, all the players must not only believe it, but they also must be willing to put forth the effort it will take to get there.” said Tessler The rams offense has been deadly this season scoring 76.4 points a game, ranked 4th in the state. The rams have been also dangerous on the defensive end, with 11 of the 12 players on the roster averaging over a steal per game. “I’m working with all freshmen. To their credit, they have started to understand my expectations of what hard work is. They also understand the responsibility of wearing the Fresno City uniform and they very much want to represent it in a positive manner, said Tessler.
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PORTS
2.4.2015
Confidence key to softball success BY KAGEANNA GARZA
Reporter kgarza@therampageonline.com
The 2015 Fresno City College softball team is gearing up for their upcoming season. With expectations high from their finishing at the Super Regional last season, the Rams have set high goals for themselves this year. Headlining this year’s team is Head Coach Rhonda Williams who’s returning for her 20th season “Our biggest goal is to get to the state championship,” said Head Coach Williams. “To get there, there are a lot of little goals.” Last year’s team made it to the Super Regionals before losing to Solano College 11-3.
Coach Williams returns for 20th season
“Last year was a great experience,” said Naomi Gomez who finished last season with 36 hits, five Home Runs, 28 runs and a season’s batting average of .310. Confidence is the key for the players to overcome their own challenges during the season. With eight new coming players, getting them up to speed of college softball will be key for the coaches. “A lot of times especially working with younger girls, it’s just having confidence and carrying themselves and trusting their teammates,” Haley Janzeraid, assistant coach, said. Leadership plays a big role with
these players and coaches. “Being a captain has a lot to do with playing a role,” said player Hayley Olivas. Having multi players that play more than one position is a great asset on the team. “We have a ton of mixed up athletes that can play where we need them to play, so that’s always good to have,” said coach Janzer. First upcoming game, the FCC players are looking good against Bakersfield who they had beaten last year with a major lead. “I feel like we can really kick some butt this year playing them,” player
Naomi Gomez said. “Last year, we beat them by a lot.” FCC is super determined to win state this year; they’re hoping they can achieve a better season this year than last. “We expect all our players to do better on Wednesday than on Tuesday,” said coach Janzer. “We’re always trying to achieve more, and taking it to the next level,” Coach Williams said. “I think we could do better this year,” Naomi Gomez said. Coach Williams said, “All we expect from our girls is to compete.”
FCC Girl’s Softball Head Coach Rhonda Williams speaks with the women’s softball team after their practice, Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2015. Photo/Daisy Rodriguez