AMPAGE Volume CXXVI Issue 5
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April 2, 2014
The Student-Run Newspaper of Fresno City College
TAKE ME TO YOUR LEADER
The annual Associated Student Government election cycle officially began yesterday, and the two presidential candidates are now vying for your vote BY PATRICK FORREST
News Editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
The Associated Student Government elections have begun once again, and candidates will be traveling the campus asking for support as they look to fill the leadership positions of ASG. “More than encouraging people to vote for you,” said Sean Henderson, at a meeting for the candidates. “You are encouraging them to vote, period.” The candidates will attempt to convince their fellow students to vote, as an average of 600 people vote in these yearly elections. “Voting in the election will allow for changes to take place, and will help decide what changes we, as students, want implemented,” said Anthony Hernandez, Election commissioner. The candidate list is highlighted at the top with Emily Haas and Daniel Melchor running for president. “If you have a heart to serve your student body, then you have a heart to serve your student body,” said Henderson “What position you have shouldn’t really matter.” An open forum for candidates will be held for those interested in hearing more about the candidates in a controlled setting on April 10. The election will be held electronically from April 22 until April 24. “An email will go out that Monday morning [April 21],” said Henderson. “And that is how your classmates know how and when to vote.”
ASG presidential candidate Emily Haas, currently an ASG senator, in the Old Administration Building on Monday, March 31, 2014. Photo/Abel Cortez
Check our website for more information about the candidates leading up to the elections
Fight for the right Club leads AB540 students to share their stories and confront the issue of immigration BY LAUREN BAKER
Art Director/Arts & Entertainment Editor lbaker@therampageonline.com
“The immigrants are marching here, no papers, no fear! Up! Up! With liberation! Down! Down with deportation!” These were the chants that could be heard in the Free Speech Area on Mar. 25, 2014 as students gathered together for the “Coming Out of the Shadows” event to rally against the deportation of undocumented students. The song “El Hielo” which translates to “ice” played as students put up posters with messages such as “undocumented and unafraid” on display. The song however, is a play on words as they are not singing about the “ice” you may be thinking of. The song is about the daily lives and struggles of a people fighting to keep their families together, that feel they are being oppressed by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or “ICE.”
l SEE DEPORTATIONS ON PAGE 2
DEPORTATION STATISTICS
ASG presidential candidate Daniel Melchor, currently an ASG senator, in the Old Administration Building on Monday, March 31, 2014. Photo/Abel Cortez
Back to the future Dr. Bill F. Stewart returns to his role as district chancellor after nearly 15 years away from the post. BY PATRICK FORREST
News Editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
n California has more immigrants than any other state(10 million)
Dr. Bill F. Stewart has returned to take the lead of the State Center Community College District, after originally leading the district from 1985-1999. Dr. Stewart has split his time after leaving full time work with the district between his wife, his work and his charity. “We do do a lot of charitable work, and things of that nature, and things that need to be done,” said Stewart. “And maybe not as much as we should, but we make an effort, we care.” But during his time as Chancellor, Stewart was able to lead the district to heights that it had previously not seen. During his time as Chancellor, According to Stewart, the district was able to expand. Building the Madera campus thanks to a multimillion dollar donation. Not only was the population being
Public Policy Institute of California
l SEE DR. STEWART ON PAGE 5
n 47 percent of CA immigrants are naturalized U.S. citizens n 26 percent possess other legal documentation(visas, green cards, etc.) n 27 percent of immigrants in CA are undocumented
DR. BILL F. STEWART’S RESUME n Recipient of the 1988 Marie Y. Martin Outstanding National Chief Executive Office Award from Association of Community College Trusstees. n July 17,1985 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa is Bill F. Stewart Day. n U.S. Army veteran from 1957-1958.
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Rampage Staff Editor-in-Chief Jordan Russell Managing Editor Kaitlin Regan
Angel Sanchez holds signs in support of immigration reform in the Free Speech area at FCC for the Students Without Borders event “Coming out of the Shadows,” Tuesday, March 25, 2014. Photo/Desiree Aranjo
Production Manager Victor Aparicio News Editor Patrick Forrest Opinion Editor Kevynn Gomez Arts & Entertainment Editor Lauren Baker Sports Editor Keaundrey Clark Photo Editor Darlene Wendels Art Director Lauren Baker Copy Chief Jordan Russell Multimedia Editor Michael Monroy Reporters James Clark Yolanda Garzon Daisy Martinez Razi Syed Photojournalists Abel Cortez Akinye Chatmon Alexis Chavez Maria Vargas Multimedia Journalists Desiree Aranjo Rebekah Madison Jarrett Ramones Cresencio Rodriguez David Thammavongsa Business Manager Sydney Excinia Faculty Adviser Lynn Badertscher Journalism Instructor Jefferson Beavers Tip Line: 559.442.8262 Twitter.com/FCCRampage Facebook.com/FCCRampage Instagram.com/FCCRampage YouTube.com/RampageNewsroom Send Questions or Letters to the Editor to: editorial@therampageonline.com Fresno City College C/O The Rampage 1101 E. University Ave Fresno, CA 93741
Journalism Association of Community Colleges
Fresno City College
DEPORTATIONS ICE describes their work as “identifying and apprehending removable ‘aliens.’ Detaining these individuals when necessary and removing these ‘illegal aliens’ from the U.S.” While certainly there are jobs to be done, there’s a level of humanity that’s absent from this statement. These students, people, families, are being viewed as a burden taking up space, treated as outsiders rather than recognized for their contributions to our country. “We’re all people, human beings, on the same planet, just from different parts of it,” said Students Without Borders secretary Angel Sanchez. Many of these students have lived in California most of their lives, migrating to the United States around preadolescent ages. Despite growing up here and being exposed to American culture, these students still faced oppression and hardships. Fresno State student Gelasio Rodriguez, who was the first to share his story at the event, said that even though he has spent most of his life here in California, he was still treated differently than others. “I’ve lived in the Central Valley for 13 years. My mother moved us here in September 2000, a single mother of 10 children by herself from Mexico,” Rodriguez said. “You don’t understand what’s going on as a small child. You think every place you go is the same, but that’s not the case. Some of us may not know the language as well as we should, but we understand the bias and the judgement.” It’s easy for the average FCC student to take their education and everything that comes with it for granted, specifically those who were born here and have had minimal struggles in attending college. For some of these undocumented students, obtaining even a Board of Governors Fee Waiver is difficult. Sanchez said he had to work hard to pay for his education himself. “I had to sit out a semester so I could work and earn the money to pay for my tuition fees,” Sanchez said. “Fresno State was my first choice, but I just couldn’t afford it. We [undocu-
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mented students] are only just getting financial aid because of the ‘California Dream Act.’ Before that, many of us didn’t qualify even though we were doing our best to stay in school.” Often, a common opinion is spread around that immigrants who come to this country illegally do nothing but magnify pre-existing problems or take away opportunities from those who were born here. “We do not take away opportunities from anyone,” Sanchez said. “There are many students that don’t have our problems that waste their financial aid and education. Many of my friends who have had to struggle to go to school are now working professionals while those other students are still
MORE DEPORTATION STATISTCS n In 2011, 27 percent of CA’s population was foreign-born, twice the U.S. percentage n Foreign-born residents make up more than 30 percent of the population in 7 CA counties n More than a third of working-age adults are immigrants n 81 percent of immigrants in CA are working-age adults compared to 57 percent of U.S. born CA residents Public Policy Institute of California
here.” However, not every student that’s undocumented has to go without a college education. There are solutions out there for those who seek them. Assembly Bill 540 benefits are available to those undocumented students who can’t afford tuition but have completed three or more years of high school or have a GED. You must also file as an “affidavit,” which is a document that “verifies that the student meets educational requirements and certifies the intent to establish legal residency,” according to the AB-540 website. For more information, visit AB540.com. But that’s not all. There are a number of resources on campus for students who are undocumented and looking for support. The Student Without Borders club meets every Tuesday in the Business Education Building at noon, and seeks to provide encouragement and tools for success. SWB treasurer Paola Guerrero states that being a part of a campus organization like this has its benefits. “Normally, platforms like this aren’t provided for these students to express themselves. It’s not often you get asked those personal questions about things that affect your whole experience. We provide that outlet; for people to connect and gain positive experiences.” To begin making progress towards a common goal as a nation, we have to start in small strides, state by state. California is home to more immigrants than any other state in the U.S. America is and always has been a land of opportunity for those that seek it. This nation of ours was cultivated by immigrants and has since been a melting pot to all those with dreams of building a better life for themselves and their families. What are we if not a patchwork quilt of cultures and creeds? “I don’t understand how brothers and sisters can sit around and judge each other for being different,” said Rodriguez. “We are all people, and should be treated equally.” l TWITTER.COM/ELBTHEHERO
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Native medicine
Flea market fundraising BY RAZI SYED
been a draft with preliminary proposals. “We don’t have an operating agreement in place yet, but we do have one In order to create another revenue written up that delineates scholarships source, the Associated Student Gov- will be a large percentage [of money ernment is organizing what will po- raised from the flea market], as well as tentially be a monthly-recurring flea the club system,” Andersen said. The creation of the flea market market. According to ASG Student Trustee began early last semester when Anand Flea Market Committee Chair dersen asked that the possibility of Ben Andersen, the flea market is set creating a flea market at FCC to be on to take place in parking lot C on April ASG’s agenda so that ASG could begin discussing it. He also gave a 26. ASG’s goal is to have presentation regarding the 50-100 vendors particicreation of a flea market to pate. ASG FLEA the Student Senate. Andersen said he has MARKET: Afterwards, a bill was first given the idea for passed by ASG that created organizing a flea market the Flea Market Commitat Fresno City College n APRIL 26 tee, according to New Media when he was Region V Club Vice President and Flea President of the Student Market Committee Member n VENDOR Senate California Community College during PERMITS $30-$60 Courtnee Hulsey. Since the creation of the Flea Market the 2011-2012 academic Committee in September calendar year. 2013, the Committee has Andersen saw that ASG GOALS: met weekly to discuss progone of the 11 community ress on the initiative. colleges that comprises n 50-100 Early this semester, Region V of the SSCCC, the Flea Market CommitSan Joaquin Delta ColVENDORS tee wrote a bill asking for lege, had a flea market funding to promote the flea that generated significant revenue for the col- n $3,000 RAISED market. The marketing bill passed which then allowed lege. According to a Aug. the committee members to 11, 2011 report in the Lodi begin working on the proNews-Sentinel, San Joaquin Delta College’s flea market gen- moting the initiative According to Hulsey, in her capacerated booth-rental income in excess ity as a Flea Market Committee memof $500,000 annually. The success of similar initiatives ber, she has been responsible for the around California inspired Ander- graphic design of the marketing efsen to push for creating one at FCC. fort, which has included designing a “What we have seen around the state logo, a banner as well as a flier. The marketing effort, in the upis that the potential [for creating revcoming weeks, will consist of a “streetenue] is very large,” Andersen said. ASG will charge vendors a fee for team” passing out fliers and going permission to set up booth, according door to door in the Tower District and to Andersen; the price of the permit other nearby areas, according to ASG will range from $30 to $60, depend- Senator Gao Vang. “We want to bring the nearby coming on whether the vendor is selling food or other wares as well as the munity in [for the flea market],” Vang number of parking spots the partici- said. According to Andersen, the flea pating vendor’s booth will take up. ASG’s goal is to raise $3,000 from the market will be a monthly occurrence on the last Saturday of each month first flea market. According to Andersen, final plans next fall, “provided the first one is sucfor how the money will be spent have cessful.” l TWITTER.COM/RAZISYED not yet been decided but there has Reporter rsyed@therampageonline.com
Patrisia Gonzales refers to a Powerpoint during her lecture to Fresno City College students and staff about spiritual healing and medicine in the Old Administration Building, Thursday, March 27, 2014. Photo/Michael Monroy BY ALEXIS CHAVEZ
Reporter achavez@therampageonline.com
Dr. Patrisia Gonzales assistant professor in the Department of Mexican American Studies, Native American Research and Training Center at teh University of Arizona, showcased “Red Medicine Traditional Indigenous Rites of Birthing and Healing” on March 27, 2014. Gonzales spoke about the process of the healing ceremonies and how they can truly heal a person through a spiritual connection within themselves. There are a few different forms of the healing, a main role in it is the four elements. The ceremonial pot has the elements of air and land, the smoke from the burning tobacco is the air and the clay pot is the land. The candles that are set around symbolize the sun and the water used equal all the elements. She explained how the ability to do healing is inherited and comes from a lineage, that one is born to heal, it doesn’t just come to you it comes from a line of ancestors.
“I come from a great line of personal healers,” Gonzales said. Gonzales also spoke of “an unseen world” and stated that through dreams you can access knowledge. Dreams and time as medicine can give you a gaining of sacred insight and sight. “The unseen part of Native American Medicine is what is astonishing,” she said. During the event, Gonzales also spoke about how her Native American ancestors went through torture for their beliefs. “Up to a million women were burned at the stake for being called witches by churches and priests,” Gonzales said. They were persecuted for their teachings. “When the Europeans came they Christianized us and passed us around,” Gonzales said. In todays modern age, the customs might have slightly changed, some healers charge for their ceremonial healings, Gonzales said. “The elders who taught me never charged,” she said. “I feel that no one should.” l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
Say what you will
Free speech area allows students to share their opinions with the campus community BY CRESENCIO RODRIGUEZ
Reporter crodriguez@therampageonline.com
On Feb. 24, 1969, the Supreme Court ruled 7-2 that students do not “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” The court ruled in Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District that the First Amendment applied to public schools, and school officials could not censor student speech unless it disrupted the educational process. The Fresno City College free speech area can be found between the bookstore and the cafeteria, away from most classrooms. Petitioners, student demonstrations and several other organizations who seek to express their first amendment rights can be found in the free speech area. FCC student Alexis Flores, on Mar. 24, 2014, stood in the free speech area in order to
have students sign several petitions and encourage participation in upcoming elections. “The only reason why we are doing this right now is because we are trying to get as much people as we can to go out to the elections so we can pass some of these legislative laws,” Flores said. Some of the laws Flores referred to included giving sex offenders felonies instead of misdemeanors and creating six new states out of what is currently California. Despite her efforts to get students politically involved, Flores says there are several students who are not so fond of her practice. “We’ve had a lot of people who have come and bumped heads with us but we don’t give them disrespect, we kill them with kindness,” Flores said. Suppression of free speech at American colleges and universities is a national scandal according to the Foundation
for Individual Rights in Education. FIRE’s mission is to defend and sustain individual rights, including free speech, at American colleges and universities. In 2007, FIRE released a survey of 346 colleges and universities in the United States where it found that 75 percent of those institutions maintained policies that “both clearly and substantially restrict freedom of speech.” Speech codes have been struck down in courts across the country and according to FIRE, any “red-light” policy in force at a public university is extremely vulnerable to a constitutional challenge. “Where and when free speech is allowed and what times more often than not,” said Sean Henderson, Fresno City College Activities Director, “has to do with the student’s right to get their education over somebody’s right to give their opinion.”
Henderson says that nobody has the right to interrupt the educational process. He also stated that it is not their [the administration] job to suppress free speech but to maintain the educational environment. “They do!,” Henderson said when prompted whether or not the FCC free speech area was truly a place where students can express themselves. Henderson added that “free speech happens out there almost everyday.” Despite knowing that there will always be unpopular speech, Henderson says “the college doesn’t prevent speech from happening, as long as its within the procedures and guidelines.” Henderson says there is a process in order to hold an assembly out in the free speech area. Henderson said, “they have to submit the facility request saying we want the free speech area from this time to this time on this date.”
That was exactly the process that Students Without Borders club secretary, Angel Sanchez went through in order to hold the first ever “Coming Out of the Shadows” event at FCC. On Mar. 25, 2014, students from the club held an assembly in the free speech area to “come out” about being undocumented. Sanchez agrees that it is important for students to freely express themselves on campus. “It is important because it allows us to really express ourselves and lets our stories be heard by others,” Sanchez said. Sanchez says that a campus needs a free speech area and it is vital for education. “If there wasn’t a free speech area,” Sanchez said, “it would be difficult to hold events like ‘Coming Out of the Shadows’, that are about outreaching to students in general than just a selected audience.” l TWITTER.COM/CRES_GUEZ
NEWS
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 04.02.2014
DR. STEWART
SCCCD Deputy Chancellor Dr. Bill F. Stewart, discusses plans for Fresno City College and the district as a whole, Wednesday, March 26, 2014 at the State Center Community College District Office. Photo/Michael Monroy
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reached, from the geographical space taken up by district buildings and schools. The student population was also increased through the efforts of him and others. “When I came here we had around 16,000 full time equivalent students, and when I left we had over 26,000, so we grew significantly.” Stewart said “We offered more classes and entered more areas of the community. I was very busy, and I took the college to community more so than it ever had been before.” And even though Dr. Stewart has been gone for 15 years, the effects of his leadership are still being felt today. “There were a lot of good things during that time but a lot of what you see in the district now, I initiated a good piece of it.” Stewart said. Although Dr. Stewart first stint as chancellor was successful, the idea of his return came as a shock to him. “Then the board gave me a call and asked ‘why don’t you come in and talk to us?’” Stewart said. “It was then de-
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cided that perhaps I had some skills that would help them during this time, which has not been an easy time for anybody.” Even though he may not have seen the phone call coming, faculty members on campus were pleased when he was announced as the board’s choice for the position. I was so excited to discover he was returning!” said Fresno City College Business instructor Sheila Martin. “He knows his job, he knows his people, including faculty and students, and he wants us all to be effective and happy with our experiences, both as instructors and as students, within the dis-
trict.” Dr. Stewart knows that this time as chancellor will be different than his first, due to the different economic realities that are being faced. “We are not in a crisis situation,” Stewart said. “But things are tight.” Even with these difficult situations, some see a reason to view the future of the district as bright as result of this decision. “I can say for sure that the tenor of the district will change as a result of his presence. I believe it will change for the better,” said Lacy Barnes, State Center Federation of Teachers president, in an email. “Bill Stewart seems
to be a man more of action, than of words. This fits well with my way of being, so I am extremely hopeful for the district at this point in time.” But even with the difficulties that he knows he has ahead of him in this return from retirement, Dr. Stewart still hopes to enjoy his time and meet the people that bring this campus to life. “I love to go on campus and see people walking around,” Stewart said. “And if people want to talk to me I have an open door policy, always have. So if people want to talk to me then come on over.” l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8
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04.02.2014
JAMIE IS NOT SO COCKAMAMIE AFTER ALL BY JARRETT RAMONES
Multimedia Reporter jramones@therampagonline.com
I was working in the Rampage office when I was approached by one of my editors informing me that I was to interview a rapper that I had previously never heard of. So it was then that I met local rapper Gentle Jamie. I was informed, before meeting the man, that Jamie was eccentric, a real character, I suppose. The day came, and based on my experience with artists and musicians I prepared myself to deal with a “talk show” personality. However, I found Jamie Nelson to be so much more than a mere persona. Jamie is a fantastically approachable guy. He gave off no artistic pretension or invasive aggressiveness. In fact, he was well-humored and pleasant. Don’t get me wrong, Nelson asserted a booming personality, but he was a fun, nice guy. Before the interview, we spoke of classic films such as “Cat People,” “Demons” and “The Night of the Living Dead.” We discussed the importance of films such as these and their impact on the history of entertainment and
Jamie Nelson, known as “Gentle Jamie,” sits down after performing at Fulton 55 on Thursday, March 27, 2014. Jamie’s next show will be at Riley’s Home Brewed Comedy Show at ApCal Winery on April 5. Photo/Abel Cortez their individual reflections of their era’s cultural climate. As soon as we jumped into the interview a switch flipped, and from Nelson came a refreshingly professional demeanor, though he remained himself. We discussed his latest album “Survivor Series” and its recent distribution in Japan. He told me about his excitement for the overseas release and his hope to travel over and tour the area. “Thats the biggest dream in the world for me,” Nelson said. “The coolest thing I can think of is doing shows somewhere other than California because of rap, like, ‘we’re paying you to come over to Japan and do some raps’ thats the coolest thing ever to me.” From his new developments to his early life, we discussed what drives him and why he chose the rap medium as his primary means of expression. I really found, in the way he described his life, a passion for his work that is inspiring. “When I’m being cutesy I’ll men-
tion things that are out of the box like horror films or Hank Williams Senior records, but root of why I do rap, it’s saturated in my solo album, is gangster rap,” Nelson said. That love for gangster rap and classic movies bleeds into his work. Seriously, check out “Survivor Series.” The quality and theatricality of the album is very impressive. Upon first listen, one might think the album a collection of random songs. But within the over-the-top nature of the album rests an honest, wellwritten storyline (my favorite chapter being the track “Maxine”). It’s like hearing a comic book - a loud, hilarious comic book. “This is my version of a gangster rap album,” Nelson said. “It’s filled with violence but from the perspective of an idiot nerd dude who just watched the movie.” Gentle Jamie’s new album and various merchandise are availiable online at www.gentlejamie.com
Check out our site for the exclusive material from our interview with Gentle Jamie! www. therampageonline .com l TWITTER.COM/JRAMONES_M
Gamer’s Chair: the roles of women in video games
Women in video games face objectifcation and secondary roles as society determines what it wants to see BY VICTOR APARICIO
Prodution Manager vaparicio@therampageonline.com
Video games have unique value as a medium. It demands interaction through your own input, ultimately pulling in gamers of all types to become invested in the characters and the world interpreted by developers. But for a medium designed for a wide audience, it’s odd the way artists and
Graphic/Lauren Baker
writers represent the women that also play their games. Since the creation of games, not many female characters are given lead roles in games. In most games, women are secondary characters. Sometimes they serve only as a plot device when, for example, women are kidnapped or killed just for a male lead to come a knocking. Other times they’re dressed for the
attention of young male audiences titles are intended for with very revealing clothing, big lips, enlarged breasts, long legs and a callipygia. The examples are everywhere. Take the “damsel in distress” trope as mentioned before. For tactless reasons, women are made useless, killed in revenge stories or as an object to be obtained. Some cases, plots like these are thrown in for the sake of the lead character. Unless used thoughtfully, the trope can be troublesome. An interesting video series on YouTube called “Damsel in Distress” goes in-depth on the subject. Though I don’t agree with all her opinions, it’s a great source of insight. There’s also the problem of the oversexualization of women. When you think of females in games, you might think of Lara Croft in the classic “Tomb Raider.” She’s intelligent, resourceful, strong and athletic. But even as a pioneer in her realm, she is sexualized for her audience. As a character, Lara Croft is compelling, an archeologist that uncovers mysterious powerful artifacts that others harness for evil, time and time again she saves the world. But her characteristics are forgotten by most when she’s laying naked in gaming magazines. As a man, my stance is that women
don't need defending on these matters, they’re able to speak for themselves. But I feel it’s important to keep the discussion going. While it’s fine consume any kind of content you want, it helps to understand what games are showing you and if you really accept the cheap ways they grab your attention. Instead, think of what is more meaningful to you like story, character or concept; something that adds with reason. Not a girl in a bikini because why not, it’s a video game. It’s ultimately the games you purchase that determine what publishers use to sale you more of the same thing. From the perspective of developers, they should never change what they want to do or limit themselves creatively. Yet, influence and interpretation doesn’t always reflect what their creative project intended. So it ends up their job to be mindful, as it should be. Not to say every game needs women to be leaders and strong but to think of all options. Women in gaming still face a problem, but like all industries, consumers shape what’s on the market. While it’s not our fault that material like what’s represented for women is what we always see, we just have to be mindful of what we’re attracted to. l TWITTER.COM/VICTORKID
04.02.2014
Fortress of Fandom BY LAUREN BAKER
Arts & Entertainment Editor/Art Director lbaker@therampageonline.com
As an avid fan of both comic books and film, the popular belief that Hollywood ruins anything they put their grubby, money-hungry hands on is an understandable one. But as far as my own opinions go, they haven’t ruined Batman yet, and that is all I care about. I love Old Hollywood classic films like “Sunset Boulevard” or “Gone with the Wind.” A key element in filmmaking in the 1920s and ’30s is the timing. Back then, filmmakers took the time to really focus on details and truly tell a whole story, sometimes even more than you maybe wanted to know but were better off for knowing afterwards. There is a real magic to this kind of cinema that has since been lost if you ask me. But that’s something that classic films share with comic books: attention to detail and great storytelling. While many, and I do mean many, films of today have a certain lackluster to them, it cannot be said of any Batman film that has been made. Take, for instance, Tim Burton’s first Batman film. Burton pulled inspiration from a classic Batman graphic novel, “The Killing Joke,” in the production of the film. If you haven’t read it, I won’t spoil it for you, but know that it focuses on the origins of the Joker (and it’s fantastic across the board). While Burton’s film focuses on Batman’s early career, he keeps two principle elements of the book in this film: attention to costume and the Joker’s descent into a vat of chemicals that alters his appearance and ultimately, his sanity. In the book, the pre-Joker is depicted in mafiawear when he gets tangled up with the Red-Hood gang, and continues to wear it in purple once he becomes the Joker. If you re-watch the film, Jack Nicholson is clearly in a mafia and dressed accordingly. Most notably, the hat Nicholson wears in the film is identical to the one in “The Killing Joke.” Even in the sequel, “Batman Returns,” Burton keeps the long-established, love-hate relationship between Batman and Catwoman in tact. O f course, no one can forget how J o e l Schmaucher a l most did ruin everything with his fixation on rubber nipples, codpieces and emphasis on terrible ice puns.
But Christopher Nolan redeemed the franchise a few years later, and gave us throat-cancer Batman. But that’s easily dismissible considering the craftsmanship of the trilogy and the reinvention of the Joker that no one thought could be done, least of all by Heath Ledger. S o where does that leave u s ? None of these films are boring, and pretty much all of them stay true to the stories. Even if they don’t, comic book mythology is constantly changing and reinventing itself. That’s why we have multiverses. In that light, can we really say that a comic-bookbased movie is ruining a story? The only way a comic book movie can really be ruined is with bad cinematography, and especially bad casting. Yeah, I’m talking to you Ben Affleck.
BY PATRICK FORREST
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Are Hollywood film adaptations doing justice to comic books? BY JARRETT RAMONES
News Editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
Multimedia Reporter jramones@therampageonline.com
Comic book movies have been around for a long time. Ever since Christopher Reeve first put the “S” on his chest and soared the skies with terrible pre-1980s special effects, the superhero film has been a Hollywood secret weapon.
Once again I’m here arguing against not only my fellow Fortress Friends but also myself. Here we go: movies about comic books will never ever capture the true essence of the source material. There, I said it! This may be an unpopular stance, but I’ll break it down. Let’s examine what it is about comics that separates them from other forms of entertainment. First off, there is pacing. A comic progresses to the liking of the individual reader. There is no music or editing that can manipulate the viewer’s feelings about a given action. The reader interprets the action on the page for themselves. Next, think about voice. The sound of a character’s voice may not seem important at first but it really makes or breaks the likeability of a character. Consider (you saw this coming) Christian Bale’s Batrasp, cheezus that was unintelligible. Fans panned Bat-Bale’s raspy ramblings and do you know why? Is it because fan-children are unsatisfiable monsters ready to cast out and chastise any that might envision their precious superheroes different than them? No. It is because fans of particular characters have a very specific idea of what their favorite character sounds like, and anything that is not it will only infuriate and disappoint. The truth is that while comic book movies are great fun for the whole family, comic book purists will always have a reason to hate choices made that alters the source for the sake of the film. To the casual viewer it might not be a big deal that the Ninja Turtles are from space, but to anyone who loved the source material this is scandalous blastpheme. L e t ’s move on to duration. A film has a beginning, middle and end, that’s it. If it is a particularly popular franchise you might see a series of sequels, (or the Force forbid prequels) b u t
But the pace h a s begun to pick up exponentially, after the release of “Spider-Man” in 2002. Every year since has seen at least four superhero movies hit the theaters. The reason for making these movies actually makes a lot of sense when you think of it from a production company’s point of view. These characters have built in story lines and are almost guaranteed to boom at the box office upon release. It is unfair to ask if they relate to the source material, but better to ask if they add to the experience and aura of the character that they are depicting. And while it may be a bit of a cop out, some do a better job than others. It just has to be an accepted fact that not every movie that is made is going to be good. Two movies on opposite ends of this spectrum are “Watchmen” and “Daredevil.” “Watchmen” is, for my money, the best comic book movie that has ever been made. It hit the tone of the books, had excellent performances from the entire cast of heroes and truly gave the feeling of watching a book come to life. “Daredevil,” on the other hand, is one of the worst comic book movies. And that really pains me because Matt Murdock, or Daredevil, has always been one of my favorite characters in the entire comic book store. Although many people blame future Batman star Ben Affleck for the terrible film, he isn’t the problem. The problem is that the film isn’t about Daredevil, the character that has been a classic staple in Marvel comics, it is about a blind guy who has super gymnastic abilities when he puts on a red spandex suit and just happens to call himself Daredevil. So Hollywood isn’t doing the comic book industry a favor with the movies that they are making. But they are making enough good ones to bring new interest into what is an artform that people give their lives to, in the forms of both making and collecting, so it’s hard to say that they are hurting it either. l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8
It’s the 75th anniversary of Batman! Visit your local comic book shop at participating locations for Batman festivities!
there is always a defin i t e ending to popular film franchises. O n t h e
other h a n d c e r t a i n comic books run on for years, you can walk into a give n comic book retailer a n d pick up a new story every day f o r the rest of your life (lest society march ourselves into the “Walking Dead”). There is never a lapse in new content for fans yet, films have to mash storylines together just to try and please as many people as possible. I love comic books. I love movies. Will I continue to see comic book movies? Of course, but the fact of the matter is that film will never be able to appropriately portray what it is that makes comic books so special. Perhaps I have yet to convince you that movies are less than capable of capturing the essence of the source comic books. Well, then I have a few words for you: Howard the Duck, Green Lantern, Spiderman 3, Fantastic Four, Barb Wire, Ghost Rider, Catwoman, Jonah Hex, and Daredevil. Boom.
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Visit fortressoffandom.blogspot.com for more rants and reviews!
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8
OPINION
Campus Voices
“What are some goals you would like the Associated Student Goverment to work towards?”
04.02.2014 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
DON’T LET ACADEMIC ANXIETIES STOP YOU
Student loans, debt & uncertain futures are the new reality, but why let this stop you? BY RAMPAGE EDITORIAL BOARD editorial@therampageonline.com
A popular phrase for parents, teachTuition costs have been creeping traversing this “dying” system. ers, school counselors and the like is upwards ever since, from $6,262 in Many students also rely single“make your education your job.” the 2008-2009 academic year to the handedly on financial aid, both state It sounds wise yet practical, and in current semesterly fee of $12,864 for and federal, to fund their way through the United States, it also holds far more 2013-2014. While such numbers may college. merit than we may expect; in modern not set off any alarms immediately, Fifty-eight percent of students times, college students who receive Pell Grants are investing more monare from households that ey, time, energy, intellimake $30,000 or less angence and talent in their nually, a 2012 College educations. Board study found. These If education is our job, grants, averaging around one would hope students $2,500-$6,000, are no would at least be considsmall sum. ered part-time employees So what are students 53.4 by now. and their families to do in Our futures--no mattimes of budget cuts and 48.5 ter how clouded by finanbeleaguered academic fucial strains or frustruating tures? educational setbacks--are Finish their degree, 46.1 entirely ours to control. that’s what. We cannot let such isThe National Center 42.6 sues derail our destined for Education Statistics careers. found that college graduUnfortunately, the ates earned 50 percent 36.0 constant push for educamore than their peers tion that has been prowho did not graduate col35.5 gressing for decades in lege and only earned a 33.2 the U.S. has created a high school diploma, and growing population of 22 percent more than stu31.6 indebted and depressed dents who only earned an students caught between associates degree. the pressures of rising So while the road to educational costs (both success will be arduous financial and otherwise) and unknown, it may still and their personal hopes be very much in your of freedom and stability. best interest to follow the A 2012 report from the expected path through Consumer Finance Pro- Chart/Kevynn Gomez, source: Bureau of Labor Statistics college to your waiting ditection Bureau finds that ploma. there is roughly $864 billion in federal combine the necessary add-ons of With over 4,000 degree-granting student loan debt, with a remaining housing and dining costs, books and higher education institutions in the $150 billion in private loan debt. Of supplies, transportation and typical nation according to the National Centhese loan holders, the largest demo- living expenses, which pile up to a far ter for Education Statistics and with graphic is the under-30 age group, at more hefty $33,320 budget. hundreds of majors such as aerospace 14 million individuals, the Federal ReSo, when you’re contemplating engineering, marine biology, kinesiolserve Bank of New York states. how the cost of UC Berkeley’s tuition ogy and criminology, the possibilities Student loan debt and constricting ballooned from only $3,086 in 1995— for a bright future are virtually endeducational routes have left thousands an almost payable amount—to its less. of students with a lack of confidence whopping modern level, start setting Consider all of the options ahead and positivity about their futures tranthose alarms off on your own. of you. Not all occupations require a sitioning into the professional workMother Jones reporter Andy Kroll four-year degree to be useful. Rememforce. These concerns are realistic, and wrote in 2012 of the downward spiral ber that taking time off from school is they are also what bind us together as of California’s higher education. not a cardinal sin. students in the modern world. In his article “The Slow Death of And lastly, don’t be afraid of investCollege tuition is merely one more California’s Higher Education,” Kroll ing in your education. While it is unfair increasing burden for college stu- questioned what lay ahead for the stu- that students should be weighed down dents. University of California Berke- dents that gained access to the prover- with debt before the rest of their life ley, the paragon of higher education in bial ivory tower. even begins, know that with a stable the California educational system, ex“Let me paint you a grim picture. job, paying back your loans is feasible. emplifies the designer cost of a mod- Colleges are filling the gap in state In 2014, your rose-colored glasses ern college degree. funding by leaning ever harder on stu- are useless. Accept the fact that we In the 2004-2005 academic year, dents and their families to pay more in have a tough future ahead of us-but a Cal’s semester tuition cost (then retuition and fees,” he stated. future that is still ours nonetheless. ferred to as an educational fee) was “California’s public higher educa$4,971, or $2,485.50 each semester, ac- tion system is, in other words, dying a cording to UC Berkeley Office of the slow death.”Therefore, remaining vigiRegistrar archived information. lant and responsible is crucial when l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
“Having more food on campus ... More activities interacting with the school.”
Nick Klein Mechanical Engineering “Better efficiency when it comes to parking--when the semester starts, it is very difficult to find parking.”
Medical secret
Occupational therapy assistants
Orthotists & prostetists
Medical secretaries
Occupational therapy assistants
Interpreters and translators
Rachel Goodmon Nursing
Home health aides
“Since I ride my bicycle to school, I would appreciate more bike racks in places where they are more safeand work on the parking, too.”
*percent expected to increase by
Industrial-organizational phsychologists
Daro Vann Real Estate
Market research analysts & marketing specialists
Fastest growing U.S. occupations in 2012 projected for 2022
Jarrett Ramones
Dylan Kaller Criminology “More food ... different types of food, not just Pacific Cafe and the student store. Something different in the cafeteria.” WRITTEN BY: MARIA VARGAS & KEVYNN GOMEZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY: KEVYNN GOMEZ
OPINION
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 04.02.2014
Has social media destroyed life’s mystery?
BY REBEKAH MADISON
Reporter rmadison@therampageonline.com
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, Vine, Tinder, Snapchat, Tumblr ... what is it about these social networks that we find so fascinating? Is it the attention? Or the amount of followers? Or how many people like us? We voluntarily share personal information about ourselves, for what? Attention? There’s nothing to feel ashamed about, we have all done it. However, where do you draw the line between public and private? Living too publicly may not seem like a big deal, but in the grand scheme of things, it destroys morality, ruins relationships and offers
a false sense of reality. Morality in today’s youth is almost non-existent, and social media is a place that offers positive reinforcement to those who publically live life with no filter. We live in a society where people care more about how many “likes” they have than about what their GPA in school is. Am I the only one who finds something sad about that? What is right and what is wrong is something that differs between each individual. What makes women want to post scandalous pictures of their bodies for the whole world to see? A question you should ask yourself before posting it is, is the image you are portraying to your social followers for attention or for respect? Am I just craving attention at the moment, or do I genuinely want people to know what I am about to post? However, respect is something that doesn’t give users that instant gratification high. Respect is something you have to earn in time, and sadly most don’t see the value of respect in life. Another thing to think about is how much you allow others into your personal relationships. Keyword: per-
sonal. It only feels natural to complain online about how someone is annoying you or how your ex cheated on you. Yes, it may be true, but does that mean the whole world needs to know about it? Are social networks just another way to validate one’s relationship? I, personally, will never understand couples who write intimate messages on each other’s Facebook walls for all to see. Why do they need to write it publicly instead of texting or even calling? Maybe it means more if others are there to read what you have to say to the person you are in an intimate relationship with. But, does that even make the relationship intimate if you are allowing others into it? Again, we live in an attention-craving world and living privately is something that is considered abnormal. Wouldn’t relationships be that much more treasured and meaningful if you limited what you share? You gain all these moments with someone, but not the experiences, because you are too busy thinking of a clever way to post how “awesome” your life is. Lastly, one last point to think about before clicking ®
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the upload button is, are you being honest? Is it just a tool to broadcast yourself in a way that gives the illusion of how perfect your life is? Many people that use social networks are not even who they appear to be. They become what people will like most. Just take Instagram for example. We take our original photos and alter them into something more captivating. What’s crazy is that it’s accepted in today’s world. We find it sickening that photographers use Photoshop to make women appear prettier or skinner when we are doing the same by adding filters. Now, the changes aren’t as dramatic. It’s like we are scared to face the reality that life isn’t always beautiful, so we constantly need these social media outlets to escape our real-life problems and enter into this fake, superficial world. Sometimes I find myself feeling nostalgic of the past when things seemed to
Modern cartoons too vulgar
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Reporter jramones@therampageonline.com
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A few nights ago I was up surfing through the late television line-up and was terribly bored. It’s a draw in the fight for my attention between some celebritarian news outlet, “Everybody Loves Raymond,” and “Family Guy.” I, of course, chose “Family Guy.” I began watching during a Stewie segment. He is upstairs and his mom Lois calls him, declaring that the brownies are ready. Stewie insists he must hurry downstairs lest he miss the show. He makes it to the kitchen where he finds that Lois has eaten the entire batch of brownies. She is sobbing, scolding herself and she induces herself to vomit on the kitchen table. Something about that scene really struck a chord with me, I found no humor in it. It was just sad. “Family Guy” has always been a clever satire of pop culture and the way many Americans view the world; however, the show is coming ©2013 National University 13206
9
be more real and genuine. I never would find myself over-analyzing why someone didn’t like my last Instagram picture or why the guy I am talking to has so many girl “friends” on Facebook. All these social media are distracting us from living in the here and the now, which makes it almost impossible to be grateful for the life you have. I encourage us all to honestly seek our motives of posting for the world to see. Is it for attention? To feel wanted? To become famous? Yes, social media will fulfill those wishes temporarily, but in the long run, those fake followers and likes leave you feeling unsatisfied. Don’t forget the person you were before you joined the social media bandwagon. And if you have forgotten, it’s never too late to jump off. Remember, you were born with a purpose and are so much more valuable than the standards of this world. l TWITTER.COM/ REBEKAHRMADISON
to a point that is no longer satirical but rather meanspirited. The show is making a shift from outlandish situations to peppering very real and complicated issues with fart jokes. Consider the widely panned episode “Screams of Silence: The Story of Brenda Q” from season 10. The episode revolves around the abuse of Quagmire’s sister at the hands of her spouse. Brenda’s character suffers from a very graphic and realistic depiction of domestic abuse and is treated as an idiot for her justification of her maltreatment. The gang decides that the best way to deal with the abusive spouse is to simply kill him. The proceeding violence is realistic and terribly graphic. There is no warning, just graphic murder and a closing joke about a hankering to murder again. “Family Guy” was made to push the boundaries of comedy. That was what made the show so interesting and fresh, but it has gotten to the point that humor is sprinkled around controversy rather than the other way around. I love cartoons. I love the way in which they can strike current affairs with satirical scorn. I am aware that not every episode is like the one described above, but I am horrified by the thought of this style of “satire” becoming common place. Consider the target audience of “Family Guy”: relatively young boys. I do not believe that viewing these images will cause kids to go out and commit similar acts, but it will convince them that things like domestic violence and rape are funny. I’ve been that boy before, laughing at the casual out-ofcontext rape joke. I am not trying to rally hate against “Family Guy,” it’s just that I am genuinely confused about who these scenarios are supposed to be fun for. l TWITTER.COM/FCCRAMPAGE
10
OPINION
04.02.2014 THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM
Should the U.S. legalize physicianassisted suicide? PRO
do not see signs of cure. People who are depressed can seek help from counselors if necessary. Moreover, for those who are well alive, death is not an easy option to make compared to terminally-ill patients who are facing death at that moment. Government actions Illustration/Jarrett Ramones towards terminally-ill patients will not affect ordinary citizens because ordinary citizens are not the targets of the proposal. While it is true that most of the world does allow assisted suicide, one case did get substantial attention. Meet Debbie Purdy, a British political activist with primary progressive multiple sclerosis, notable for her challenge to the law in England and Wales related to assisted suicide. As part of her case, Purdy contended that the assisted suicide prohibition in the 1961 Suicide Act constituted an interference with her rights, within the context of her private life. Medical experts in the United States remain divided in their opinion of whether physician-assisted suicide should be legal, a new poll suggests, BY LAUREN BAKER indicating that the way in which Arts & Entertainment Editor/Art Director patients die and the role of pallialbaker@therampageonline.com tive care will remain issues of much We are taught from an early age debate. that violence is never the solution In a poll conducted by the New to a problem, that calling it quits, no England Journal of Medicine of the matter the circumstance, is taking the journal’s readers who are primarily easy way out. Why should physicianhealth-care providers, people from 74 assisted suicide be any different? countries cast 2,356 votes, including I know that some would argue 1,712 votes from U.S. readers. that assisted suicide from a medical Overall, about 65 percent of votes standpoint is necessary for those that were against the idea of permitwould go on suffering needlessly. ting physician-assisted suicide. The I can see the point in this, but in rate among U.S. voters was similar, the same light still can’t step on the with about 67 percent voting against other side of the fence. We live in a physician-assisted suicide. time with the most medical advances But dying in a controlled environwe’ve ever had to date. We possess ment at a set time would allow for the strongest forms of morphine and more convenience and can save lives. other similar drugs necessary to keep There are over 120,000 people on patients that are terminally ill comthe organ waitlist. If people were alfortable. lowed to be in hospitals and control Using assisted-suicide methods their own death, those organs could would certainly be of value if we were be harvested and used to save others. still living in the Middle Ages when Preparations could be made before any kind of serious condition was the death since it would be at a contypically treated with amputation, or trolled place and time. worse, with no painkillers of any kind. Death is one of the few things that According to northwestern.edu, we cannot avoid no matter how hard we try. Unfortunately, we all will reach there are two differentiating definitions of physician-assisted suicide. that time in different ways. “Physician-assisted suicide” is the act People could come in, speak with of a physician providing the means their loved ones for a final time while for a patient to end his or her own life doctors are getting ready for surgery. whereas “euthanasia” is the instance Once ready, the injection could be where the physician will commit given, and the organs taken to the the act for this patient themselves, already-prepared recipient. With one decision, two people’s pain and suffer- contingent with a case of personal sympathy and terminal illness. ing could be ended. A doctor is supposed to preserve We get to make choices about evlife, not enable the ending of one. erything involving our lives. More than anyone, certainly you or How and when we end them I, a doctor should understand that a should be another choice that we are patient who is weak, vulnerable and free to make. initially suicidal may only be this way l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8 as a side effect of strong medication.
CON
BY PATRICK FORREST
News Editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
Many of us have felt down at different points in our lives, and hopefully we were able to struggle through them and come out the other side a better, stronger individual than we ever were before. That perseverance should always be there. As the old saying goes, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. But what if there was something that you could not struggle past? The end is slowly approaching, and the closer it gets, the more uncomfortable you become. The pain and suffering is increasing with every passing day, and you have been told from multiple medical professionals that the pain will not cease until your final moments are over. Should people in extreme circumstances be allowed to end their suffering with the assistance of others? Suicide victims are often sad and sympathetic cases who usually don’t see their situations getting any better and want a way out even though there are so many better ways. Assisted suicide is not giving those going through life’s difficulties a free and easy path to end their lives, it is giving those who are being dragged through great physical pain an option to end their suffering. Governments in liberal democracies should legalize assisted suicide in the form of active euthanasia. The conditions for active euthanasia are as follows: 1. Patients who are diagnosed with a terminal disease and suffer from unbearable pain may choose to do so. 2. The patient is informed of all the consequences of euthanasia. 3. The patient needs a diagnosis from an independent doctor to see whether the patient is able to make a rational decision. 4. The patient must show his or her will to die on his or her own to show that the choice is not forced. 5. The patient must be over the legal age. 6. The patient will die by lethal injection. Therefore, suicide and euthanasia are not in the same boat at all. Moreover, it is extremely difficult for terminally-ill patients to live a happy, productive or worthwhile life if they
There have been countless cases of patients in surgery who were not properly administered anesthesia and were able to feel doctors cutting into their bodies, but were unable to react because they were paralyzed. Could this not also apply to suicidial patients, by principle, though perhaps on the opposite end of the spectrum? General anesthesia has been shown to have a number of negative consequences on the human body that can affect cognitive decision-making skills. Research has shown that complications such as cardiovascular collapse, hypoxic brain damage, idiosyncratic reactions and even hypothermia are very possible realities when going under the knife. Collective data on patient.co.uk shows that 0.2 percent of patients that undergo surgery with anethesia have experienced a feeling of awareness during surgery. The site also claims that this is even more common in patients having cardiac or obstetric surgery. Knowing that something so commonly believed as safe, such as the use of anesthesia, could be so harmful and damaging to one’s cognitive capabilities, is it so far-fetched to believe that a patient who may never otherwise consider suicide as an option be doing so as a direct influence of being overly-medicated? Across the board, physicianassisted suicide is not a popular endeavor. Only four states in our entire country have made physician-assisted suicide legal, whereas the other 46 have made it illegal. Facilitation of assisted-suicide is considered a felony in California. According to euthanasia. org., many other states consider the act worthy of manslaughter charges. While not every seemingly unanimous decision made by a national majority is always a stride in the right direction, certainly this should be a movement implemented by all 50 states. The only instance where something of this nature is a little more acceptable is with DNR individuals. DNR stands for “do not resuscitate,” which is for people who have documentation that specifies a desire for any medical personnel to avoid performing CPR on them in the event that their heart stops beating, they stop breathing, or they suffer cardiac arrest. While this is still to some degree a little disturbing to me, it’s widely accepted and respected as a personal decision on behalf of the individual. At least it’s a choice made by the patient when they are of sound mind and capable of making their own decisions about their health. I know how it feels to have a loved one in the hospital suffering from an illness. Of course I wished there was more that could be done to make their days on earth more comfortable. It’s awful having to watch someone you love deteriorate before your eyes. It’s nice to still have those last moments to share conversations with the loved ones that you can never have again. Overly medicating and essentially allowing doctors to “play God,” so to speak, lessens your chances of having this, and that’s not a risk I’d be willing to take. l TWITTER.COM/ELBTHEHERO
THERAMPAGEONLINE.COM 04.02.2014
SPORTS
11
PLAYOFF BOUND?
Games against Merced and COS have FCC baseball in prime position for playoff push BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
FCC baseball infielder Brett Bausman, gets ready to throw the ball during practice at Radcliffe Stadium before a game against Merced College, Tuesday, April 1, 2014. Photo/Darlene Wendels
Garrett Lewis earning his stripes
Going into the last month of the season, the Fresno City College baseball team is in prime position to take its Central Valley Conference title. It could be the team’s sixth championship in a row. After 10-3 win over Merced on April 2, FCC stands at 11-5 in conference play (15-11 overall). The team has two more games in a row against their rivals from Merced and an upcoming game with the conference leaders, College of Sequoias. The Rams need to beat COS to clinch the top seed going into the conference championship tournament. “We can still win the CVC,” sophomore pitcher
Dominic Topoozian said. “Overall we want to make the playoffs and put another state championship on the wall.” Topoozian is currently 5-4 overall with a 2.44 era. He has logged in 59 innings and recoreded 43 strikeouts. According to Assistant Head Coach Eric Solberg, the Rams have made it to the state playoffs eight times, winning in 1992 in his third year as an assistant. The team has a long history of victories, and the coaching staff has won thousands of games as a staff. In order to accomplish the goal of moving into the postseason, they have to get through the Central Valley Conference. This season has been plagued with highs and lows. The No. 13
Rams dominated the Porterville Tigers 6-2, 7-4 and 10-1. After the first three games, the Rams looked to be one of the best teams in the state. They are top 5 in the conference in runs batted in, with 92 on the season. Then they played three games against the College of the Sequoias. FCC lost 5-3, 8-7 and 8-4 between March 18 - 22. Despite the slump, the Rams have the potential to turn the season around. “Good thing we have enough coaches,” Topoozian said. “Wherever you’re on the field there’s always someone that can help you out.” l TWITTER.COM/SLOCUM13
Sood’s Fight To Survive
Mattali Sood's battle with cancer helps push her life in the right direction.
BY PATRICK FORREST
News Editor pforrest@therampageonline.com
Garrett Lewis was born in Fresno, California with a passion for sports. But after leaving Fresno City College Lewis has focused his attention mainly on one sport, golf. “It’s been my whole life since I left school,” Lewis said. And since September 2013, Lewis has been competing with the Pepsi Tour and on November 18 he got his first tour win. “As satisfying as it was it only made me want to work harder to get back there and win,” said Lewis. But although he is getting to live out a dream by making money doing what he loves. There was a time in his life where that did not look like it was in the cards. During his senior year of high school, Lewis was taken down by scoliosis. “I had surgery for it,” said Lewis. “Stacy Lewis from the LPGA had almost the exact same surgery.” Stacy had her scoliosis straightened by a stainless steel rod surgically implanted by Dr.
Gary Brock in Houston. And after rose through the ranks of women’s golf and Garrett hopes to do the same. According to Scottish Rite Hospital, of every 1,000 children in the United States, only three to five develop spinal curves that are considered severe enough to need treatment. But as of right now, he continues to earn his stripes competing with many different pros at the sport that he loves. Having one thousands of dollars in prize money and climbing the ladders to the top of his sport. “I guess my dream would be the same as other golfers,” Lewis said. “Winning a green jacket.” But for right now Lewis will continue to work his way to top, one tournament at a time. “I’d love to see where I’ll be in 5 years,” said Lewis. “But I guess that’d take all the fun out of the ride.”
l TWITTER.COM/FORRESTP8
BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
Mattali Sood, born in India, came to Fresno in 2010. She attended Central High School yet she had trouble making friends. She started playing badminton, a sport she hadn’t played since her days living in India. “I started playing it recreationally to get back into the sport.” 2011 saw her biggest challenge to date; surviving
FCC badminton player Mattali Sood returns a serve to an opposing player from De Anza City College, Tuesday, April 1, 2014 in the Fresno City College Gymnasium. Photo/Michael Monroy cancer. Sood had many symptoms yet she ignored them, then after going to the doctor she was told to get x-rays. There she found out. “Cancer (lymph around lungs) and I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in my life,” said Sood, “but after surviving cancer I want to be a doctor.” After six months of chemotherapy she was cancer-free and able to continue playing badmin-
ton. “My family was very supportive, they were with me throughout the whole process.” She plans on transferring to Fresno State and then applying for medical school to become a cancer specialist. “Cancer made me stronger,” said Sood. l TWITTER.COM/SLOCUM13
Fresno City College men’s tennis in its second straight CCCAA men’s dual team championship Big 8 South Men’s MVP Singles - Andre Almeida (Fresno) Doubles - Sam Bertram/ Adam DeRomas (Fresno)
All Conference Fresno: n Andre
Almeida n Sam Bertram n Adam DeRomas n Christian Fisher n Shawn Leeder n Brian Harpin
Final Standings: 1 - Fresno City 8-0 2 - Reedley 6-2 3 - Modesto 4-4 4 - Cosumnes River 2-6 5 - Sacramento City 0-8
12
PORTS
04.02.2014
Candace Egan: FSU Professor Turned FCC tennis star BY KEAUNDREY CLARK
Sports Editor kclark@therampageonline.com
Candace Egan finished the 2013 season undefeated in conference play. She was also the Big 8 MVP. In 2014 she was part of an FCC womens tennis team that went undefeated. It was FCC’s first conference title since 2012, and their first outright title in some time. Egan loves the demand, physical and mental aspect of the game. She compares it to a physical chess match. “It’s about analyzing and problem-solving and combining that with the physical. That’s what makes tennis a great sport,” said Egan.
Q. A.
What got you back into tennis?
My husband pushed me to get back out and play. I took a tennis class at FCC, Coach Monreal was the teacher she asked me to comeout and practice and the rest is history.
Q.
How long have you been playing?
A.
I’ve been playing on and off for the most part of 17 years. I started in high school at Fresno High.
Q.
You got married and tennis took the backburner to other aspects of your life. Coming back to tennis how hard was the adjustment?
A.
When I started working at Fresno State, I tried to get back into tennis recreationally but was not in shape physically or mentally.One of my colleagues had an interest in tennis, so we got back into shape together and would go play matches at Roeding Park.
Q.
Family and friends: How supportive have
they
been
during the comeback?
A.
I’ve had support from family and friends throughout the process. Even some of my colleagues have come to see me play and I’m always
the topic of conversation with other professors.
Q. A.
How has your second seaon at FCC gone?
Second season going well, we finished the season undefeated and won the conference title.
Q. A.
What are your goals for the rest of the season?
I want our team to get through the postseaon tournemt and advance in the Ojai state tournament.
Q. A.
Did you think you guys would be this good last fall?
ter.
The hard work we put in prepared us and made us bet-
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FCC tennis player Candace Egan counters an opposing serve against Sacramento City College, Friday, March 14, 2014 at the Fresno City College Tennis Courts.Photo/Michael Monroy