INSIDE Dyson to Candidates speak at FCC Forum Page 3 Page 6

Volume CXV, edition 6 Since 1949 April 16, 2008 Film Fest at Asian American Month the Tower Fresno Filmworks led by FCC instructor

by Joseph Boone Rampage Reporter

On Friday night, the bright, familiar pink and white lights of the Tower Theatre will shine. Moviegoers will flock inside to find the historic theatre temporar- ily converted into a massive movie theatre. Projectors will shine mov- ies never-before-seen by Fresno residents. And had it not been for the hard work of John Moses, Fresno City College film instructor and president of Fresno Filmworks, the movies shown this weekend would have probably never reached Fresno residents. Fresno City Council President Blong Xiong spoke to FCC students about his humble beginnings and his role in the community on.Photo by Joseph Rios Ian Porteous, a second-year Cell and Molecular Biology major at FCC, said he had attended a First Hmong City Councilman talks politics Fresno Filmworks presentation by Cynthia Moreno win in the 2006 Fresno City Coun- tory: his footsteps trace a success- a non-profit organization that in- about a year ago and found it very cil election made him one of the ful journey to America. tegrates immigrants, refugees, or enlightening. He attended one Views Editor most notable Asian American fig- He is a refugee from Thai- “new Americans” into American of Fresno Filmwork’s viewings Blong Xiong is half an ures in the state of California and land who came to settle in America society by assisting them with held on the second Friday of each hour away from giving a speech to the entire country, but more impor- for “survival” at the tender age of housing, education, and employ- month. Fresno City College students. He tantly, in Fresno, California. five. He landed in the Midwest, ment. He watched a showing of walks in through the doors of the Xiong became the first where he lived for the majority of “We have all the money Army of Shadows, a film noir clas- student lounge, nervously glanc- Hmong-American to be elected his life and where he was college in the world here in America, sic. The film detailed the French ing around the room to see if his to a city council seat, holding the educated, earning a degree in Busi- and yet, we can’t provide any resistance during WWII. “It was presence is recognizable by those highest position: president. To ness Administration. services to those who need it, and nice and bleak,” Porteous said. expecting him. A crowd of ad- date, there are only three Hmong- He left the Midwest in 1991 I felt that this needed to change,” Roger Ebert hailed it as “the best ministrators greets him; he smiles Americans that hold political posi- and moved to California, where Blong said. foreign film of the year” in 2006. candidly, exuding a demeanor that tions in the country. he prefers to remain. He earned He said what touched him But this Friday’s view- transcends an aura of humbleness, With two years of presi- a masters degree in Business Ad- the most was being able to see the ing brings something especially curiosity and comfort. dency under his belt, he expects ministration and began working impact he was making for those unique. Independent films from It is no surprise that Xiong’s the next two years to be just as as the associate director of the he worked. “When you work nine different countries will cap- enterprising. Xiong has made his- Fresno Center for New Americans: tivate attendees as Fresno Film- See “Language” page 5 works celebrates its fourth annual Fresno Film Festival. The festival runs April 18-20 and features a Asian-American Month promises multitudes variety of films. “We try to have as much by Ivette Lopez ing various traditions alive within One of the activities which traditions and different people diversity as we can in terms of style Rampage Reporter generations. took place on Monday, April 7 will come together to display an and genre and, within the limits At Fresno City College, at the FCC Student Lounge was Asian extravaganza. of 29 programs, even national Most Americans are fa- this event is celebrated with a the Student Film Festival, where Among the agenda lies origin,” Moses said. He described miliar with Black History month multitude of activities the entire presenters encouraged students a celebration of martial arts, the festival as “a venue with a dif- in February, celebrating various student body can enjoy. to create a video with an Asian- performances by the Polynesian ference.” African American icons such as Opening day was March inspired theme. Club of Fresno, a Cultural Village The festival opens with Martin Luther King and Rosa 31, which kicked off the festivities Students who missed the displaying things from artwork the French film The Diving Bell Parks. But few know that April on campus. Among the activities Film Festival, can still time for you to Chinese calligraphy, and other and the Butterfly, a movie that is Asian American Appreciation planned for the month include to engage in fun Asian activities for activities such as origami, story- received dozens of major awards month. Internments, Game Shows in the the duration of this month. Accord- telling and of course lots of food During this month, people Student Lounge, an Asian and Gay ing to Glover, the biggest event to for the entire family to enjoy. See “Filmworks Cel- all over recognize Asian Ameri- Panel and even an Martial Arts come will take place on Saturday, Two entries, “The Black ebrates,” page 3 cans around the globe, while keep- workshop. April 26th at FCC where culture, See “Community” page 5 2 Rampage News April 16, 2008 Rampage honored at state conference Rampage excellence award is based on the by Pedro Quintana content, layout, and balance of issues covered. The Rampage RAMPAGE Rampage Reporter FRESNO CITY COLLEGE staff was very excited for this 1101 E. UNIVERSITY AVE. The Fresno City College important honor they received of FRESNO, CA 93741 Rampage reporters won several the JACC annual convention. awards at the Journalism Asso- “I think it’s a combination Editor-in-chief: Joseph A. Rios of what we are working towards,” News Editor: Joseph A. Rios ciation of Community Colleges said Rampage advisor Dympna Views Editor: Cynthia Moreno Convention which took place in Entertainment Editor: Cody Gless Los Angeles from April 3 to 6 . Ugwu-Oju. “It shows that our Business Manager: Leah Edwards Over 55 community col- students are learing to balance Asst. Business Manager: Jeannie Batey leges attended the convention good judgement and excellent Special to the Rampage Adviser: Dympna Ugwu-Oju which was held at the Wilshire layout.” From Left: Cynthia Moreno, Jeannie Batey, Joseph Rios, Joseph Boone, Grand Hotel. Ife-Chudeni Oputa won Dympna Ugwu-Oju, Alexis Abrahamson, Pedro Quintana at the Wilshire Reporters The following reporters fourth place on her opinion piece Grand Hotel. won awards: Cody Gless, Shirley on racism. Joseph Rios won first Olivera street. There, they found big prize in this category. Joseph Rios, Jeannie Batey, Cynthia Nakagawa, and Francine Ramos place in the sports feature photo. an amazing story about an artist Rampage adviser Dymp- Moreno, Cody Gless, Deshad Cato, won second place in Enterprise Of this award, Rios said, with amazing cultural paintings. na Ugwu-oju was elected president Pedro Quintana, Adrine Avanesyan, Story/Series; they were also “I’m not a photographer; at least They spent all of that Fri- of Northern California(Norcal) Eddie Ortiz, Ivette Lopez, Joseph awarded general excellence in I don’t think so. It was a complete day investigating the multimedia Branch of JACC. Boone, Alexis Abrahamson, Marcell newspaper writing. surprise to me.” Rios also won project. They pieced together piece In the board of directors, Dilworth, Sebouh Simonian, David Carrie Gunther and Joseph Honorable mention in the Bring- through the night and competed she will serve as the vice-president Malagon, John Esquiuel, Matthew Rios won fourth place in the enter- In advertisement category. Saturday morning. of the JACC. Rampage reporter Mendez, Christopher Alaniz, prise story/series with the Hillary The JACC brought a At the JACC banquet, Pedro Quintana was also elected Marcelino Rodriguez, Deon Sumlin Clinton story that was published new competition to the state the top three productions were president of Nor-Cal, student last semester. convention called Team Feature shown. branch. Out of 55 community 2.0 which had three students The one by Rampage re- The Rampage students About Us colleges, only 15 receieved the from each school participate in porters was the first video to be celebrated the recognition they Rampage is an award-win- General Excellence award. The multimedia reporting of a story previewed. The team glowed with received at the JACC convention. ning newspaper published biweekly by Rampage was one of the 15 that in LA. excitement. Jeannie Batey, Cynthia Ugwu-oju said, “ We can only go the Fresno City College Journalism 4 received this award. The general The reporters were sent to Moreno, and Joseph Rios took one up, the sky is the limit for us.” & 5 programs and is a member of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges. Views expressed in The Ram- Allergies poke the noses of valley residents page are those of the individual writers The histamine response is suffer from allergies. and do not necessarily reflect those by Jeannie Batey FCC’s nurse and health ser- all too familiar to FCC student Nurse Albright described of Fresno City College, its students, vice coordinator, Linda Albright, Brittany Poncelet. She says, “My the valley’s air as “The worst in Rampage Reporter says that after the body has been administration or the State Center Com- allergy problem begins the mo- the world.” She also said, “If you There’s a menace floating exposed to foreign protein, it sets munity College District. ment I get out of bed.” live in Fresno long enough, you’ll about the valley and at Fresno up a response, which is called a Poncelet has plastic covers probably have at least mild aller- Letters to the editor and submissions City College. The menace is al- histamine response. on her pillowcase to help control gies.” to the calendar will be accepted via lergies. One minute a student will According to the glossary dust mites and that her method to Some have to change their e-mail or in person 12 noon - 1 p.m. be talking to a friend, the next, of allergy terms on the Asthma and avoid a sneeze attack is “being entire lifestyle to adapt to the al- Monday, Wednesday and Friday, at The they are sneezing and rubbing Allergy Foundation of America outside and inside an even amount lergy weather. According to the Rampage, Room SC- 211, above the their eyes. (AAFA)’s website, histamine is and taking antihistamine.” AAFA, an estimated 50 million bookstore. Please keep all letters to The body immediately “a chemical released by cells that AAFA’s glossary defined Americans suffer from all types a maximum of 500 words along with responds when it encounters an causes nearby tissues to become antihistamine as a “class of medi- of allergies. contact information. allergic reaction to a foreign swollen and inflamed.” cations used to block the action of That’s one in five Ameri- protein, better known as an al- Nurse Albright said, “The histamines in the body and prevent cans. FCC student David Piercey Contact the Rampage lergen. histamine response is a puffy, the symptoms of an allergic reac- says he has allergies, but he never Business: (559) 442-8262 tissue response. So it makes your tion.” found them to have a big effect. Production Rm:(559) 442-8263 eyes water and your nose feel For those hoping for a cure “I mostly sneeze and have Fax: (559) 265-5783 congested.” from this menace, know tha there watery eyes. No big deal,” he said. E-mail: Classifieds She added, “The proteins in Editor In Chief: are no cures for allergies. Allergies Piercey has lived in the valley for [email protected] the air or the dirt that makes con- can only be suppressed with the years. Free Book on Past Lives, Dreams Rampage business Office: tact with the skin and are inhaled right prevention and treatment. Albright said, “Everybody and Soul travel from Eckankar. rampage-business@fresnocitycollege. react to your body. And it causes That is a tough task for is different. It isn’t like the mea- edu Call toll-free recording an allergic reaction in their breath- those living in the central valley. sles; it’s a reaction of your body Advisor: dympna.ugwu-oju@ 1-877-411-1800 or visit ing system.” Most who live in the Fresno area to its environment.” www.eckankar.org/Free Book

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Submitted by Salt March April 16, 2008 April 16, 2008 News Rampage 3 Michael Eric Dyson, scholar to visit FCC Filmworks

4, 1968: Martin Luther King, celebrates Jr.’s Death and How It Changed America.” What makes Dyson’s ap- seven pearance at FCC significant is the timing; it’s the 40th anniversary of years of Dr.King’s death and the country is in the middle of a historical presidential election, where for exhibition the first time in American history, a black man or woman can become One film president. According to Gurdeep highlights Fresno Sihota, Director of College Activi- ties, Eric Dyson’s visit to FCC has Continued from page 1 been an option for a while. worldwide but failed to make “I wanted him to visit the it to Fresno. The film tells the campus,” said Bernard Navarro, true story of Jean-Dominique American Indian Studies instructor Bauby, the successful editor of said “he was high on my list.” French Elle, who believes he is “He’s a brilliant speaker living his life to its fullest when and very intelligent. His scholar- a sudden stroke leaves him in a ship has inspired me,” Navarro life-altered state. also said. The program in its en- Navarro added that Eric tirety includes six feature-length Dyson is a fearless leader and for films and 23 shorts. Seven of whom he has a lot of respect for the films, including one feature, his scholarship. have a connection to the central Although his appearance in San Joaquin Valley. the coming weeks is anticipated Hotel Fresno is one of and welcomed, there are still many those films. It runs as part of mixed feelings. Sunday’s 2 p.m. shorts program Nursing major, Amanda and is directed by Fresno’s own Cummings said, more promotion Teresa Flores. The film takes the Google Images Michael Eric Dyson of the event needs to be more viewer on a short tour through ernment is response to Hurricane logical Seminary, the University evident. by Eddie Ortiz Fresno while exploring the lives Katrina. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Another FCC student sug- of the overlooked. Rampage Reporter Dyspon recently criticized Columbia University and Brown gests that more signs and infor- Attendees, festival pass “Race, politics and class in Bill Cosby over comments the University, before going to the mation can be posted around the holders, and visiting filmmak- the 21st century” will be the topic iconic comedian made in a 2004 University of Pennsylvania in campus. ers may attend the opening of discussion when Michael Eric speech. 2003; there he was the Avalon “I hope his talk raises im- night reception at the movie’s Dyson, African American writer, Cosby had stated that -*ur- Professor of Humanities. portant questions about race and conclusion. The reception in- radio host and professor at George- ban poor blacks add to the social On July 3, 2007 George- other touchy topics,” said Navarro cludes a Mediterranean feast, town University, visits Fresno City and economic tribulations that town University announced the ap- “I hope a dialogue takes place on champagne, and dessert. Scats College’s gym on Friday, April affect them. pointment of Dyson as University campus.” On The Sly, a local swing band, 25, 2008. Cosby went on to state Professor. He teaches theology, According to Navarro will provide entertainment. Dyson is a prominent African American men in the poor- English, and African American Dyson’s speech will be approxi- Collaborations in an ef- scholar, preacher and best-selling est of communities aren’t taking studies. mately an hour long; afterwards, fort to create Fresno Filmworks responsibility for the care of their According to an article on he will field questions from the occurred in 2001 and by March audience. Dyson will speak at the families and community. explore.georgetown.edu, George- the next year, it presented its He condemned Cosby’s town University Provost James “His approach to issues first showing at the Fresno Art FCC gym on April 25 comments by calling it abuse of J.O’Donnell was quoted as saying, is accessible to everyone,” said Museum. “We did that for three the “Afristocracy” or well-to-do “Professor Dyson is an intellectual Navarro “He’s a community per- months and the audiences were in the black community upon the leader in society and academia.” son,” so large that we needed to find a author. poor blacks. “At Georgetown we look “He does raise questions, bigger venue,” Moses said. His public speech focuses In 2005, Dyson published forward to his continued societal but he does it without being offen- Three months later, Fres- on race, religion, pop culture and “Is Bill Cosby Right?: Or Has impact and anticipate the contribu- sive,” continued Navarro. “He’s no Filmworks began showing other contemporary issues in the the Black Middle Class Lost Its tions he will make to enhance our controversial though.” from the Tower Theatre, a move African-American community. Minds?” A more lengthy examina- vibrant academic community,” the Navarro said Dyson isn’t that dramatically increased both Dyson is no stranger to tion of the “Afristocracy” versus quote continued. a speaker who speaks to a specific its costs and audience. Six years controversy, whether it’s putting the “Ghettocracy” (the urban poor Dyson is an accomplished, group of people. later, the decision has proved spotlight on the class conflict in blacks) award-winning author as well. “He’s willing to speak to itself prudent. Viewings have the African American community Dyson has taught at De- He has published over 16 books. the masses,” Navarro said. “He’s been held every second Friday or exposing the failures of the gov- Paul University, Chicago Theo- His latest book is called “April speaks for the people.” of the month since. AsianFest 2008 'SFTOP$JUZ$PMMFHFt4BUVSEBZ "QSJM "GVMMEBZPGGBNJMZGSJFOEMZBDUJWJUJFTBOEFOUFSUBJONFOU 'SFFBENJTTJPOt'SFFQBSLJOH $BMM  GPSJOGPSNBUJPO IUUQPOMJOFGSFTOPDJUZDPMMFHFFEVBTJBOGFTU

4QPOTPSFECZ $IVLDIBOTJ(PME3FTPSU$BTJOP $PNDBTU 64"SNZ ,BJTFS1FSNBOFOUF $PDB$PMB "#$ 1BOEB&YQSFTT '$$"TTPDJBUFE4UVEFOU(PWFSONFOU 4 Rampage News April 16, 2008 Dakota Draconi: Voice of the Abused by John Esquivel a prostitute. She suffered from anorexic bulimia and had a drug/alcohol problem. Rampage Reporter Dakota was still under the impression that Every year, thousands of abuse the way she was treated was part of a normal cases are reported. Statistics show that an lifestyle. She stayed on the streets until she average of 102 children are abused almost was eighteen. every hour. She was then bought by a man who This adds up to 3.3 million children eventually married her. The man who she that are abused annually. Many people do was about to marry had previously abused not even know how close to home these her as a child. She had children with this types of abuse can be because most people man and they witnessed the abuse that was are not outspoken about the abuse they may going on. be experiencing. She believed that the abuse was One woman in particular, Dakota alright as long as he did not touch their chil- Draconi, is out to change the cycle. Draconi dren. She later realized that he was setting a was a victim of abuse as a child that even- horrible example on how women should be tually led to abuse in her own marriage. treated. The marriage lasted for nine years Today, she is giving presentations (through and she had many suicidal thoughts. She her organization Breaking the Silence) on would have rather been dead at that point. stopping violence on children and those in With the help from a therapist, she relationships. realized that she had to leave the marriage Dakota Draconi’s childhood in the and get away from the situation. Her thera- public eye was very typical. Her family pist informed her that a mother who is not went to church every Sunday. Her mother around is much better than a dead mother. was also a Sunday school teacher and leader Under the guidance of the Marjaree of the local PTA. Mason Center and her therapist, she hopped At school, she also served as the on a bus to Tucson. It was here where she lunchroom lady. However, Dakota knew spent seven months on the streets followed that she took some of these roles to keep by another nine months homeless in Fresno. tabs on her and her siblings. For example, She had lost everything including her own the reason why her mother took up the job in family. She then began the battle of getting the lunchroom was so she could keep watch her life back in order and gaining custody of how much food she ate. of her children. Her mother’s control did not stop or She realized that her children were begin there. As a toddler, she was forced to now being abused by their father. She called throw up her food and eventually learned the police and CPS and had the father ar- how to do so on command. rested. Once he was in criminal court, he She was also born into a prostitution received three years of informal probation. ring, where at a very early age her parents The judge acknowledged the abuse taught her how to pleasure. In kindergarten, but claimed that at least he had not aban- her mother was paid by strangers to come doned them. Dakota, her therapist, and the into their home and have sex with Dakota. child therapist in the case fought against She claims that this type of abuse is worse the verdict. Through her dedication and that neglect. perseverance, she was able to get her chil- When she looked for help, no one dren back. was there on her side. At the age of eight, Today, she is living with her three she was asked by a church member if she children and educating many on breaking was being abused. the cycle of child abuse. The organization She confessed some of the abuse that she has founded, Breaking the Silence, is a was taking place at home and the church non-profit organization dedicated to raising member called a social worker. Dakota public awareness of child abuse. was then interviewed for an hour and a half At first, she was speaking to classes and confessed to the all the abuse that was about her life with Multiple Personality Dis- taking place at home. However, she had no order. She eventually branched out to her life emotion when she spoke. This was in part and how she dealt with the physical abuse. because Dakota was under the assumption It ultimately formed into the organization that the lifestyle that she lived at home was that it is today. She has also participated in a normal one. local politics in order to fix loopholes that Due to her lack of emotion when keep the cycle going. explaining graphic details, the social worker Dakota’s life may not be something did not believe a word she said. She was that everyone likes to hear, but the fact called an attention seeker and her parents is that it is a reality. She is a woman that were notified by the social worker of what overcame the obstacles when most people she had exposed. would give up. Later that night, she was nearly Through her story, you begin to beaten half to death by her parents. They realize the many factors that come into chipped off a piece of her tailbone which play when dealing with abuse. Her main led to complications she is still dealing with objective is to make others aware of the even today. ongoing child abuse in this country, but she At the age of fourteen, Dakota ran is an example of how anyone can overcome away from home and lived in Napa as anything. April 16, 2008 News Rampage 5 Language, culture became Community Event April 26 report card, the young boy’s furiously par- Continued from page 1 ents ground the boy and lecture him. After Propaganda” and “Crazy Asian Parents,” showing the parents rage, Echols went on to hurdles for Xiong were submitted by FCC students Jonathan show how the film was made and how much Echols and Matt Miranda. First, the students fun the cast enjoyed filming. Continued from page 1 utility rates, infrastructure, traffic jams and had to submit their entries to Dr. John Mo- “The film festival is not only public safety.” ses for evaluation. Their they were able to educational, it’s something that they [the for a non-profit, there is no such thing as Most importantly, Xiong tries not to screen their short five-minute films for the students] like doing,” said Mai Lee Glover, responsibility. You do whatever you can to worry about people’s expectations of his small audience gathered at the lounge. one of the judges and directors of Asian provide for the constituents in your com- work. “I try to make the best decisions I Before showing his film, “The American Month. According to Glover, the munity,” he said. can make and do not make promises that I Black Propaganda,” the Miranda simply film festival isn’t so much about winning or His political career emerged by mere can’t keep. I look at all the issues that the said, “I want you all to be the judge of my losing, but more about the experience. The coincidence, but was not a spontaneous city of Fresno is facing.” Xiong describes his film. Basically this is going to play at a big students are, however, judged in these areas: decision. He admits that being a political role as a political figure to be important. “I film festival in L.A.” effort, technique, and audience appeal. The figure is both demanding and difficult; not a want people to understand that the role and In his film, Miranda proved his judges, which included John Moses, Otto 9 to 5 job. It requires enormous time, effort the real message behind the position that I cinematic skills while portraying a man Lewis, Janice Wong and Glover then delib- and daily commitment, at all times, 24/7. hold is public service. It is important for the being tortured by two other men in a sort of erated and gave feedback to the students. Xiong has taken his political achievement in community to understand, that in essence, I suspense thriller. Although the film wasn’t No winner was announced at the festival as strides, using an approach that he considers am a public servant.” finished, the intense scenes had the audience some of the judges were not present. to be the most effective and valuable as a Thus far, Xiong has tackled issues in at the edge of their seats. For specific times on performances direct result of his life experiences. “There the pubic with an approach he coins “com- Echols film, “Crazy Asian Parents” or other Asian American Month Activities, is a difference between talking about a munity grassroots politics” which basically follows a young boy and his very strict contact the College Activities Office at community and actually serving it, living aims at serving a diverse community: one of parents. After seeing a single B+ on his FCC. it, and being it,” he said. Xiong serves one color and poverty. Although humbled to be of the most diverse districts in California a part of FCC’s Asian American month, he with approximately 70,000 residents and a states that Asian-Americans are as diverse relatively small Hmong community. as the population and he is only representa- Much of Blong’s upbringing took tive of a piece of that population. “I think place in diverse communities. During his the key is to integrate the diversity present, youth, he lived in neighborhoods where within the Asian American community- its his family was the only Hmong in town. what I try and do,” Xiong said. He lived in the ghettos. His family was Xiong recognizes the importance on welfare. Years later, denuded him to a of having the right mindset in order to run predominantly African American commu- for a political office. “You have to have nity where he was able to identify with the strong, hard core values because you have peoples struggles and constant battles being to ask yourself at what cost are you willing waged against poverty. to negotiate your values in order to win? His life in “all white” communities [For office]. exposed the naivete he once held towards The issues must fit the individual the existence of racism in America and the running for office. He encourages students reality of its detrimental impact on society. to become engaged and involved in their With Latinos, he was able to relate in terms communities whether civically or politi- of socio-economic status and class. Both cally. “I think voting is the American thing immigrants and farm laborers, the only to do, especially for refugees or immigrants: thing that separated the two cultures were it should be even more important to them to language and food. vote because of the lack of opportunity to do It was this background that provided so back home. To engage is key.” a foundation for Xiong’s strong family Xiong leaves FCC students a clear values and hard-work ethic, of which he message on politics and serving a diverse describes being “to a fault”. community: “What is American to me- is This value system is being integrated that this country allows us to give back. into his political endeavors. “Because I What is America? The ability for us to give have always been a community activist and back the best of our culture, the best of our advocate, it hasn’t been difficult to address ethnicity, the best of what we do and that is issues that are important to the community,” why this country is the best country in the Xiong said. “I’ve addressed issues in rising world, hands down.”

Fresno City Bookstore Rampage 6 News April 16, 2008 Fresno Mayoral Candidates Partake in On-Campus Forum

by Adrine Avanesyan moderated by Dr. Sarbjit Johal. jobs in this community. office needed leadership and that Council member Henry T. Trezza said that what they hoped City Council member Mike he would provide the initiative to Perea started with, “I believe that Rampage Reporter to achieve from the forum was to Dages said that he was running for make people believe. this city is ready for a change, this On April 10 at 11 a.m., raise awareness that there is an mayor because, “the next mayor of Moreover, Ignacio city is ready for some progressive Fresno City College students, election on June 3 for mayor and this community needs to have busi- Garibay, a realtor, said that he action and I believe; this city is faculty and members of the com- to give students a sense of who the ness experience and government was running for mayor because ready to clean its air, to diversify munity, gathered at the FCC the- candidates are and some of their experience.” He also pointed out Fresno needs someone to be the its economy, and to make public atre to witness a special moment priorities. that he understood how to make a ears of the community. He said, “ safety a continued priority at city in Fresno history, a forum hosting The candidates were payroll and balance a budget dur- I want to represent you guys.” hall.” the 2008 mayoral candidates. seated on both sides of a podium, ing these tough economic times. Businesswoman and candi- He said that one of his goals The election, which will where Dr. Johal asked the candi- City Council member Jerry date Barbara Hunt said, “ I went was to make sure that the residents be held on June 3, 2008, will be dates on his left and right, a set of Duncan said, “I am running for to City Hall, worked there for a of Fresno do not have to go outside Fresno’s first open race in years. questions that were solicited from mayor for one simple reason, I long time, saw the way the situa- of Fresno to find employment. The candidate who wins will re- political science students from want to fix what is broken and tion was going and I said no; I do Doug Vagim, a member place Mayor Alan Autry, whose Sarah Velasquez’s class. improve this city.” not want my kids out there dying of the Fresno County Board of term has expired. In opening remarks, each Duncan also stated that he on drugs, no jobs, rent is too high, Supervisors, said, “There is a 900 The Mayoral Candidates candidate gave the audience a had 29 pages of specific objectives PG&E too high, education is fail- pound guerilla sitting in the other Forum was presented by FCC’s sense of why they were running that would make Fresno safer, more ing, school prices are too much.” room and that is a huge mounting Political Science Department, the for mayor of Fresno. livable, and create better prosperity Hunt spoke very passionately, debt that is going to be on your Associated student Government, Attorney and candidate for everyone. saying that she was there because backs that you are going to be and the College Activities Office. Tom Boyajian said, “I am running Jeff Eben, a lifelong educa- of the people. towing around.” Nine out of the 11 candidates for for mayor because I have the expe- tor, said, “I want the city of Fresno Henry Monreal, a Fresno Vagim said that he wanted Mayor were in attendance, miss- rience, the vision and the passion to believe in a future that is bigger Police Specialist, said that he was to make sure that this debt did not ing from the forum were Ashley for Fresno City.” than we can see for ourselves today, running for mayor not because affect future generations. Swearingen and James Boswell. Boyajian also said that the with the same power and hope that crime was his top concern but After opening remarks, The forum was orga- five major issues in Fresno are I had as an educator, I have as a because, “Neighborhoods where Dr. Johal asked the candidates: nized my Mark Trezza from the poverty, unemployment, quality leader.” people live,” His slogan is that What their plans were to revitalize Political Science Department and of life, transportation, and finding Eben said that the mayor’s Fresno needs family wage jobs. downtown Fresno? Article continues below

Phto by Chris Alaniz From Left: Doug Vagim, Henry Perea, Henry Monreal, Barbara Hunt, Ignacio Garabay, moderator Dr. Sarbjit Johal, Jeff Eben, Jerry Duncan, Mike Dages, and James Boswell. Vagim said that one of the incarcerate.” There seemed to be put it as, “Everybody needs a sec- public transportation was natu- individual and handed over to a main things that should be done a consensus among the candidates ond chance.” rally followed by the following developer. Eben said, “There is with downtown Fresno is to get off that education and job opportuni- Henry Perea made an im- question how each candidate a proper use of eminent domain, the backs of young entrepreneurs ties were key to reducing gangs portant point regarding this issue. would you work with other state it would only be used after all who want to do something with in Fresno. He said that there are a lot of people and federal authorities to reduce possible resources have been ex- the place. As the candidates got use who are actually working and are pollution in Fresno? hausted.” Duncan said that the one He criticized the layer of to the structure of the forum, the homeless because they do not have Barbara Hunt said, “I will time that eminent domain was used governance that these entrepre- questions kept coming. jobs that pays them well enough to go to Sacramento and get into was at the request of the property neurs have to deal with. The next question was: afford housing. Governor Schwarzenegger’s of- owner because the financial ben- Perea said, “We need to What are your plans to improve It became clear that FCC fice with a plan.” Perea proposed efits were appealing. provide an opportunity for people conditions for Fresno’s homeless Political Science students had that four things need to be done By the end of the forum, who want to live that urban life- population? Vagim suggested that come up with some well thought to reduce pollution: convert fleets each candidate had presented the style.” most homeless people had a drug out and important questions. Dr Jo- into clean natural and liquid gas, audience with a clear vision of He pointed out downtown problem and mental health needs. hal asked: How would you improve increase the use of renewable why they should vote for them. Fresno needs entertainment, mixed He said that the state should not public transportation in Fresno? energy, invest in greater public As Mark Trezza said, “If your vote housing and opportunities for pull back health care funding. Tom Boyajian said that transportation, and more green ever matters in pure numbers, it everyone. Monreal said that until He said, “I do not care a comprehensive transportation building. is at the local level.” The forum downtown Fresno is thought of as what we do or how many houses system was needed, one that would Garibay said that he would went very smoothly and both the a neighborhood, nothing is going and shacks we put up there, those enable people to go from Fresno to make sure that there will be no candidates and FCC students got to happen down there. people are free spirits.” Candidate Clovis without the bus constantly fees for planting a tree in ones a lot out of it. The next question was: Hunt’s response to that same ques- stopping. back yard. Vagim said that other The candidates were able How are you planning to reduce tion seemed to be a sort of counter Duncan presented an inter- districts, like the Bay Area, need to present themselves and their gang violence in Fresno? Jeff Eben attack on Vagim’s answer. esting idea. He said that providing to put some of the same controls stance on important issues affect- said he would focus on drug treat- Hunt said, with passion, Wi-Fi wireless technology on on their pollution mechanisms that ing the city of Fresno, to the people ment, educational opportunities, “These people are not drug addicts, buses, where people can go on we have. That they should not be who would go to the voting booths and job training. crazy or mentally retarded, they the internet, check emails, and able to dump all their dirty air on on June 3. Duncan stated he would are just people like everybody else do their work on their way home, us and avoid all the regulations. FCC students got the op- take a different approach by adding in here is going to be if they do not would encourage the use of public The final question was: portunity to see what the future of 150 police officers over the next pay their rent for two months.” transportation. What do you believe is the proper Fresno would look like when one four years. To this response, there Henry Monreal said that Boyajian said that Fresno use of eminent domain in the city of these candidates wins the elec- seemed to be a sign of disapproval there are a lot of vacant buildings need to diversify our public trans- of Fresno? tion for mayor. As the audience from an audience member. in downtown that can be used portation by perhaps looking at Mike Dages said that he piled out of the FCC theatre, there Mike Dages declared, “It to provide housing for homeless light rail transit. did not support eminent domain was an air of awareness surround is cheaper to educate than it is to people. Ignacio Garibay simply The question regarding where property is taken from an them. 7 Rampage Entertainment April 16, 2008 Planting the seeds of a movement by Deshad Cato tion teams is of Filipino decent. Even Jin, who is consid- Chad Hugo makes up one ered one of the best MCs work- Rampage Reporter half of the hugely successful ing today, only sold about two duo the Neptune’s, and although hundred thousand copies of his It started in the Bronx. Pharrell Williams plays more as first . A Jamaican born Disc the face for the duo Chad is every Clothing companies, on Jockey by the name of Clive Cam- bit of instrumental as Skateboard the other hand, have shown major bell, aka Kool Herc, plant the seeds P…literally. growth. A Bathing Ape (or BAPE) that would become a worldwide Chad plays most of the is a Japanese clothing company phenomenon. instruments for the drumbeats founded by Tomoaoki “Nigo” 1520 Sedgwick Avenue, and melodies that Pharrell comes Nagao in 1993. where Kool Herc started spinning up with. According to Nigo, the records would later become to be Another prolific producer name “A Bathing Ape” is short known as “The Birthplace of Hip who has worked with some of the for a Japanese saying “bathing in Hop” and artists like Grandmaster biggest names in Hip Hop is DJ lukewarm water.” Flash, Kurtis Blow and Sugarhill Baby Yu. Japanese people typically Gang would take the fresh new art Known throughout the in- have long daily baths. Bathing in form and help bring it to national dustry as “The Remix Kid” Yu has luke warm water is to over indulge. prominence. worked with the likes of Kanye This is, ironically, a reference to Fans of Hip Hop know West, Talib Kweli, Busta Rhymes the laziness of the younger genera- this story. Now, a new story has and Fabulous. Yu, has been work- tion of Japanese, the brands own started to take root. ing for 10 years now. Google Images customers. Just like the black, white He is known for his work Clive Cambell; aka Kool Herc In January 2005, Pharrell and Latin communities before it on the mix tap and club scene, He is the first Asian American rapper and Everything in Between.” Jin is Williams helped Nigo launch the the Asian communities is starting performs all over the word for sold to be signed to a major record currently on tour and continues to first “Bathing Ape” store in New to come into prominence in the Hip out crowds. company. Jin got his start battling dominate on the battle scene. York. Artists such as Lil Wayne, Hop world, albeit slowly. Dj Honda is by far one in his hometown of Miami. Other artists such as LS, Jin, Kanye West, Jermain Dupri, In every facet of Hip Hop of the most loved and respected He also made a name for Shogunna, Rook, Giant Panda, N.E.R.D, The Beastie Boys, and , from the music to the clothing, Djs, no matter the ethnicity. Honda himself on BET’s “106 and Park”. Chan, Young Mac, the Teriyaki even actor/comedian Robin Wil- ‘the Asian community is staking started out in Tokyo where he He’s signed to the Ruff Ryder label Boyz, the Far East Movement and liams rocks BAPE. it’s claim and carving out their own would become one of the most and release his first album “The Roy Kim all have broken through Hip Hop, started as an elite place in Hip Hop history. revered and respected Djs rising Rest Is History”. to gain, albeit minimal, exposure club for black youth to voicing If you want to look at sun, working with artists like Mos Jin would ultimately on the music scene. their concerns, joys and sorrows. where the Asian community has Def, Fat Joe, The Beatnuts, Red- leave the Ruff Ryder label; he Chalk it up to record com- has now become the world’s voice. had the greatest impact on music man, and Gangstarr. remained on good terms with the panies not knowing how to market Words like “b-boy,” “flowing”, you need look no further than on Producing the music isn’t label. Asian MCs, or maybe the sup- and “breakdancing” have become the production side. where it stops. Asian MCs are He has since released four posed lack of interest in Asian part of the universal language that One half of possibly this gaining some traction as well. The and is working on his sixth, MCs has led to the stifling of many connects all black, white, latino generation’s most popular produc- most successful thus far is Jin. Jin album entitled “Birthday, Funerals, talented artists. and Asian. Music breaks through language barrier at all, like the Detroit show. We by Jeannie Batey were the first band on the main stage, not everyone had gotten into Rampage Reporter the venue, so not too many people saw us.” The Tour D’espairsRay held their has been growing in popularity own even their name strengthens since it started in 2005. The tour their goal to make it big world- went international right away and wide. The band name can be de- traveled all the way to Japan. scribed like transcending through T h i s y e a r t h e t o u r a feeling of despair by seeing the brought three Japanese bands; ray of light. D’espairsRay, The Underneath, Every song this band cre- and MUCC. Which held their own ates speaks about feverish night- in an American venue. mares they overcame and having To start off the Asian band no pain left to feel. Gorgeous D’espairsRay is dark and border- vocals and sound are matched with line schizophrenic. The vocalist, beautiful lyrics. Hizumi, has a vocal range that Soon, the barrier of lan- varies from a soft rhythmic howl guage will be smashed away. Little to sounding close to an unhinged by little this band brings a new demon. sound and a new culture to listen The band is hot and when to and enjoy. you meet the members in per- Americans will have to son they are humble and full of open their ears to a different lan- smiles. guage. Japanese rock bands are D u r i n g t h e i r s e t , getting closer and closer to becom- D’espairsRay played songs from ing American mainstream rock and their US released album ‘MIR- there is no end in sight. Google Images ROR.’ D’espairsRay: ZERO (bass) Tsukasa (drums) Hizumi (vocals) and Karyu (guitar.) Check out the bands Songs such as DAMNED, were only there to see Avenged crudely heckled during the event; In an interview with the Myspace at: TRICKSTAR and SIXTY NINE Sevenfold and play. people could be heard saying, band conducted by the JRock http://www.myspace. had the Sacramento crowd roaring A fan of the band who went “Learn English or die.” Every Revolution staff, the guitarist com/despairsray despite the language barrier. http://www.myspace. by the nickname “Keiko” said that move one of the Asian bands made Karyu said, “It’s different in ev- com/underneathjapan It was an electrifying per- “The band kicks a--. It’s about time was looked at under a microscope, ery place. There have been places http://www.myspace. formance from start to finish, de- they get their name out there.” so each band had to really bring where they have embraced us and com/muccofficial spite being bombarded by fans that The Asian bands were it. places where they don’t respond April 16, 2008 Entertainment Rampage 8 Jonny Dubowski Shows FCC How To Go Green tional Resources Defense Council) as well health of culture and the health of the for inner-city youth include architecture, as itsyournature.org and is responsible for planet, we use music, art and science to landscape design, education as well as by Cody Gless touring hundreds of college campuses a generate excitement about green solutions helping fund youth field trips and ecology Entertainment Editor year, attempting to show students that “it’s as we custom-design eco-blueprints for projects. not that difficult to collectively contribute schools, businesses, and communities. “Rock ‘n Renew has brought the to a greater good.” Through rock shows, festivals, lectures, message of sustainability to over 100,000 Jonny Dubowski and Rock ‘n’ To further explain Rock ‘n’ installations and other programs,” he said people since its inception in 2006, with Renew hit Fresno City College march 25th Renew, Dubowski said it is “a non-profit Some of Rock ‘n’ Renews efforts events in New York, , Stockholm, to promote sustainability and the welfare 5 organization that focuses on helping busi- include “helping inner-city kids find men- Madrid, Belgium, Barcelona, LA, Atlanta, of the worlds natural resources. nesses, activists, artists and musicians live toring as well as union jobs and helping and other cities. Since the end of 2007, “Touring for years and seek- and act in sustainable ways. promote holistic cleansing”. Several of the Rock ‘n Renew has interacted with over ing more economic ways to travel.” said The connection between the programs that Rock ‘n’ Renew provides half a million people around the world.” Jonny Dubowski is what caused him turn –rocknrenew.com an eye to more eco-friendly forms of transportation as well as the promotion of sustainability. Born in New Jersey and Raised in New York,dubowski has had vast amounts of experience in both performing and networking with other musicians. From packing shows at the leg- endary concert hall CBGB, (Country, Blue Grass and Blues) who has been respon- sible for booking several legends includ- ing The Ramones and The Dead Boys to more recently, opening for legends, Everclear, Dubowski is not lack- ing in the experience with the ways of the road. Dubowski with his band Jonny Lives has toured with the likes of Ever- clear, The Shins, and The Fountains of Wayne, The Kaiser Chiefs, Debbie Harry, Modest Mouse and even headline rappers Snoop Dogg and The Wu Tang Clan. Working with many of the bands previously mentioned, Dubouski De- veloped a plan to help promote sustain- ability and green “peace” among college students. The plan that Jonny titled Rock ‘n’ Renew teamed up with the NRDC (Na- photo by Blake Gollmer

WHAT? Amtrak California’s San Joaquin trains students the opportunity to travel around California and Amtrak Thruway Motorcoaches connect Fresno City at some great savings. Thruway Motorcoaches also College and Fresno to communities and destinations connect students with Amtrak trains in the Bay Area throughout California. and Southern California. WHY? It’s convenient, economical, and a relaxing HOW do I make a reservation? Simply visit our and scenic way to travel. The train is great for studying, website at Amtrak.com to check current fares and sleeping, eating, or spending time with friends. schedules. You can make reservations online, at a staffed station, or by calling 1-800-USA RAIL. WHEN? Amtrak San Joaquins® has convenient departure times throughout the day offering Fresno City College WHERE do I catch the train? The Fresno Amtrak station is located at 2650 Tulare Street at Highway 41. Here a friendly Amtrak agent can help you with ticket sales, checked baggage, and general travel information.

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This discount is valid for sale 01Sep07-19Jun08 and valid for travel 04Sep07-22Jun08 on the Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquins and associated thruway service, including Merced to Yosemite, all other 7000-8999 series thruways are excluded. Offer valid for 20 percent off the best available coach adult rail fare for students of the following California Colleges and Universities: California State University (Bakersfield and Fresno), Fresno City College (Fresno), California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo), University of California (Merced, Irvine, and Santa Barbara, University of the Pacific (Stockton), University of San Diego (San Diego), San Diego State University (San Diego), and Santa Barbara City College (Santa Barbara). Blackouts apply for the following dates: 20-27Nov07, 14Dec07-02Jan08, 20-24Mar08 and 23-26May08. Passenger must be a student and show a valid student ID (when purchasing tickets and on board train) for one of the colleges listed above. Reservation must be made at least three (3) days prior to travel date. Once travel has begun, no changes to the itinerary are permitted. This discount is not valid towards purchase of multi-rides and is not valid thru a travel agency. Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply. Refer to discount V363. Amtrak, Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquins and Travel Made Simple are service marks of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.

07-CAL-055-CollegeAd-Fresno City1 1 8/24/07 9:26:58 AM 9 Rampage Entertainment April 16, 2008 Legendary Asian Films: Spanning The Decades

by Ramiro Gudino

Rampage Reporter 3.Battle Royale 5 2000 Japan 1.Shaolin Soccer 2001 Hong Kong At the turn of the millennium, Japa- Trying to inspire people to practice nese society began breaking down as martial arts, Kung Fu master Sing is met unemployment and poverty rose. Disenfran- with rejection despite various strategies; chised, the youth began to rebel, disrespect- people don’t believe that his traditional art ing authority and ignoring school. has anyplace in their lives. Afraid of the younger generation, After witnessing a frustrated Sing adults pass the Millennium Educational kick a beer can with incredible force, ex-soc- Reform Act - AKA: The BR Act (referred to cer star Fung urges him to try soccer. as the Battle Royale act). The BR Act calls After convincing former fellow-stu- for problem classes to be put in a national dents who have moved into various profes- lottery. sions to return to their training, Sing forms The class chosen is taken to a desig- a team coached by Fung. nated site and forced to participate in Battle As the team competes in an elite Royale. As one class embarks on a school tournament, their skills in martial arts earn trip, they fall asleep on bus. them recognition, culminating in a final When they wake up, they realize they game pitting Team Shaolin’s traditional martial art training against Team Evil’s steroid en- Google images hanced tactics. struction and loss of life. With comedic dance rou- After researchers study the sites, tines to persuade crowds, sta- 4.Final Fantasy they determine that the monster is a crea- dium damaging kicks utilized ture that was exposed to radiation from the players, and Tai Chi baking Advent Children 2005 Japan atomic bombings of the recent war. techniques developed by the As further attacks are anticipated, love interest, this 2001 Advent Children is a full length- measures are taken to kill the creature but Hong Kong comedy will animated film based on a 1997 play fail. be appreciated by anyone station game Final Fantasy VII. This A scientist believes he has a meth- who enjoyed Baseket- game is a favorite of many Final Fan- od to combat the monster, but is reluctant ball and Dodgeball. tasy fans. to allow his current research on oxygen It’s been two years since Sephi- dissolution, fearing that it would be used roth, a man who nearly succeeded unethically as a weapon against people once in for world wide destruction, was the creature was stopped. defeated. Three brothers, all flawed clones Godzilla is an iconic monster that of Sephiroth, are trying spawned a genre of giant monster movies to succeed where the and this movie is the one that started it all. original failed. Do yourself a favor and find the original Fans of the game series instead of the Americanized release. will appreciate this CGI The movie plays on fears of (then) movie, it expands the recent atomic bombings and questions the already vas world pre- ethical applications of technology. sented in ff7. I recommend anyone play the game before watching this as very little of past events are explained but refer- enced heav- ily. 2.Kung Fu Hustle have been collared and forced into Battle Hong Kong 2004 Royale by a former teacher. A video explains the situation. In a city run by axe wielding They are on a deserted island and mobsters only slums are ignored, as the have three days to win the battle royale. The resident don’t have enough money to only way to win is to be the last survivor. interest the Axe Gang. If time runs out, and a clear winner isn’t 5.Godzilla 1954 Japan Pig sty alley is one such neigh- selected; they all lose. borhood, until Sing, a luckless wannabe, The movie follows how the students A couple of boats being tries to impersonate the gang leader bring- cope with the various situations some at- attacked in Tokyo bay is all the ing the anger of the gang on the slum. As tempt to reason with their adult captors, warning people have be- residents defend their homes, Sing has to some try to circumvent the trial, others fore a towering decide which side he really wants to be embrace the inhumanity of the situation. mon- s t e r on. Not for the squeamish; this movie starts a t - This film parodies and acknowl- tackles themes of youth violence, questions t a c k - ing edges the aspects of Chinese wuxia genre. of humanity, and motives during extreme small Wuxia stories feature skilled martial art- stress. v i l - ists with strong codes of ethics or chivalry. Dark and graphic at times, this movie lages on In this film it leads to scenes with handles delicate issues, with care while the Japanese wire-assisted showdowns between good without being too gory. You’ll like this if coast. Though and evil. Incorporating slapstick humor re- you liked Hostel or Saw. brief, encounters minsent of Chuck Avery (including a foot with the legendary chase that would make Wile E. Coyote creature Godzilla are proud) this movie is a fun experience. marked by widespread de- Views October 10, 2007 April 16, 2008 10 CAMPUS VOICES Slipping into a Recession: Coping with Credit Card Debt and a Slow Economy...

How many credit cards do you own? Q: How much do you owe? by Eddie Ortiz Rampage Reporter How is the current economy Q: affecting you?

“Five cards. I owe more or less a thousand dollars.” ~Jeannette Miller~ Victomology

“I spend a lot on gas now” “It hasn’t really affected me” ~Meng Moua~ ~Sukhee Basetti~ Art Pre-Medicine

“I have three credit cards and two debit cards. I owe close to “I have two credit cards. I $800.00 on them” owe $250.00.” ~Debbie Andrews~ ~Freddy Cortez~ Sociology Electric Engineering

“I pay $50 for gas now. The “I pay a lot for everything gas prices have gone way now. Not enough money to do up.” anything.” ~Miguel Sosa~ ~Teresa Massiner~ General Education Sociology

“I have no credit cards” “I have two credit cards. I ~Cynthia Guillen~ owe nothing because I pay Sociology them off.” “I spend a lot on gas” ~Ben Ventura~ ~Kenneth Hedrington~ Sociology Business Administration Photos by Chris Alaniz

12 Rampage Views April 16, 2008 April 16, 2008 April 16, 2008 Rampage 13 14 Rampage News April 16, 2008 Martin, Mahogany highlight Jazz Fest by Deshad Cato On Thursday April 3, over festivities. Rampage Reporter two dozen high school jazz en- As a student at Baker Uni- sembles performed on the FCC, versity, Mahogany performed with Jazz, one of the most re- with a special awards concert with various instrumental and vocal vered and loved musical art forms the FMCMEA Honor Jazz Bands ensembles and formed his own around the world has inspired more and the Fresno City College Jazz vocal jazz choir. artists and musical art forms than Ensemble, featuring special guest After graduating, he re- possibly any other musical art form trombonist Andy Martin. turned to his roots in Kansas in the history of American music. Andy Martin is truly a City, attracting a huge following Jazz has, from its early world-class jazz musician. His throughout the 1980s. Kevin has 20th century inception, helped to sparkling bebop lines and con- now started his own label, “Ma- generate a variety of subgenres, summate musicianship make him hogany Jazz,” and has two projects from New Orleans Dixieland equally at home on the stage or in scheduled for release: “Kevin Ma- dating from the early 1910s, big the studio. hogany Big Band” and “To Johnny band-style swing from the 1930s He maintains a busy sched- Hartman,” a tribute to the vocalist Photo by Chris Alaniz and 1940s, bebop from the mid- ule in L.A. in bands led by Jack of the 1940-70’s who helped popu- The view from outside Dympna Ugwu-Oju’s office on Monday 1940s, a variety of Latin-jazz Sheldon, Louis Bellson, and Quin- larize jazz and swing. morning. fusions such as Afro-Cuban and cy Jones, among others. With eleven CD’s as a lead- Brazilian jazz from the 1950s and Martin has long been one er, and quite a few as a sideman, Rampage Advisor’s 1960s, jazz-rock fusion from the of L.A.’s first call trombonists for Kevin has proved to be the quintes- 1970s and later developments such commercial recordings, televi- sential jazz vocalist. as acid jazz. sion and motion pictures, and live Newsweek describes him office vandalized Artist such as Miles Davis, theater. as “the standout jazz vocalist An unidentified vandal threw a ceramic pot through the window Ella Fitzgerald, Thelonious Monk, He has contributed on al- of his generation.” New Yorker of Dympna Ugwu-Oju’s office last Sunday night. The pot cut a Billie Holiday, John Coltrane, bums for many popular artists, magazine writer Whitney Balliet Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, including the Pussycat Dolls, writes, “There is little Mahogany basketball-sized hole and sent spider-web like cracks throughout and Dizzy Gillespie and many Coldplay, and Michael Buble. His cannot do.” the glass. College personnel placed a large piece of plywood on the other musicians and singers have television credits include major Both performers gave rous- inside on Monday afternoon. No arrests have been made. become Jazz legends heralded by awards shows like the Grammy’s, ing performances earning standing fans from all over the world. the Emmys, and the Academy ovations on both nights. In honor of the sounds and Awards. One can only wonder how inspirations behind Jazz April is On April 4th ,2008 Fresno FCC can hope to top the per- being heralded as Jazz month, and City College brought acclaimed formances that they managed to to help celebrate Fresno City Col- jazz vocalist Kevin Mahogany secure for this years Jazz month. lege is bringing a whose who to to fill the FCC Auditorium with One things for sure, it’ll be a joy the Fresno City College theatre. beautiful music to continue the to watch them try. Stop Rampage Support Club Presents.... Reading Rampage Idol the News Write It! Journalism 4 & 5: MW 12-12:50 and 1-1:50 Have a hand in the production of The Rampage. See how it really gets done. REGISTER NOW!!

Prizes awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners!!! When: April 24 @ 12 p.m. Where: Free Speeach Area

If you can sing, dance or plan an instrument you could be a winner. Sign up now at the Rampage: Room 211, above the FCC Bookstore. April 16, 2008 Rampage 15 April 16, 2008 News

Photo by Joseph Rios ‘Teatro Campesino’ carries tradition of rattling cages As part of the events intended to celebrate Cesar Chavez day, College Activities brought “Teatro Campesino” to the FCC Theatre. In the days of the fruit boycotts led by the United Farm Workers and Chavez, traveling troops of actors would use satirical plays to garner support from farmworkers and fruit pickers.

Prizes awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners!!! News April 16, 2008 16 Hopeful Suffering Fresno Poet Remembered

By: Joseph Rios ndres Montoya lost a battle Awith leukemia nearly ten years ago. He was a hulk of an ice-worker who left this earth with his songs unpublished. He never reaped the fruits of his labor. He never heard the critical acclaim or felt the welcoming embrace of a whole generation of poets that continue to be inspired by his work. Maybe it was his way of getting the last word.

Throughout his life, he a first look a Andres’ forthcoming Andres employed in his American Above: The cover fought just about everything. He book, “Pakatelas.” Book Award-winning poetry. of the April issue of rebelled, revolted and yet, he Contributors to the April He spoke of loss and love, In the Grove. The loved. He shared warm whispers of issue, friends, family, and lovers hope and despair, anger and joy. contents is dedicated encouragement along with caustic of Andres’ work joined to celebrate Above all, he expressed a profound to the late poet and cries of contempt. the launch of the new issue on longing for his big brother. former Fresno City He was a poet of great con- April 10. After almost 10 years, he College English victions and great contradictions. The night of poetry reading and many in the audience were professor Andres He howled in the face of and story telling was one to be still wrestling with Andres’ pre- Montoya. His father poverty, crime, death, and injustice remembered. mature departure. Their faces told Malaquias provided while he rejoiced in redemption, “You self-righteous, hypo- the tale. the artwork for the hope, and faith. critical little s**t!” said Andres’ “I cry for him often,” Ma- cover. Lee Herrick, It was his truncated life younger brother Maceo in front of ceo wrote in “Moments Lost” FCC instructor and and all-telling voice as a poet that a crowded hall at Arte Americas. which appears in the current issue author of “This brought together the likes of Pu- It was one of his older brother’s of In the Grove. “For our loss, for Many Miles From litzer Prize winner Phillip Levine, favorite insults to use when the two the incomprehensibleness of his Desire,” is the American Book Award winner were arguing, he explained. death, still, after all these years, as founding publisher Tim Z. Hernandez, and a host of The phrase brought on raw as the day of his sickness…as of the journal. prominent writers together for the waves of nostalgia for those who raw as the days and months fol- Right: Montoya’s knew Andres best. His father, lowing his death when I was un- American Book Malaquias Montoya, sat front- prepared to deal with his absence. Award-winning Copies of In the Grove row, stage-left and laughed as he I am still unprepared.” book of poetry, “The can be purchased at remembered his late son’s rebel- Presenters recalled his Iceworker Sings.” lious tendencies and his eloquent laughter, his faith, and gregarious i n t h e g r o v e . n e t tongue. nature. Teresa Tarazi, also an FCC painters, a Pulitzer Prize winner, time. Suddenly, as if by a stroke of The Montoyas are a family English instructor, remembers and American Book Award Win- providence, a group of birds burst of artists, a bloodline of expres- and misses her good friend from ners shared the stage with Puente into the room and perched on the April issue of In the Grove. sionists. Malaquias, with his hard, college. She misses the afternoons students and up and coming poets. chair next to the podium. The Valley-based journal, weathered skin like cracked Fresno they spent painting and writing They all had one thing in com- “I don’t want to romanti- founded by Fresno City College soil was one of the first to paint the poetry. mon: Andres. cize it or anything, but that’s what English instructor Lee Herrick, face of the Chicano. Andres’ former English pro- “That was a magical night,” happened,” Herrick said. Porras was the first to publish Andres’ He himself, bares the visage fessors at Fresno State, Levine and said Chacon. nodded in agreement. “That was now famous poem, “The Ice- of a campesino, a farm-laborer. Corrinne Clegg Hales, recalled his There was a looming pres- Andres,” they agreed. worker Sings.” He wears worn, dusty soft-leather outspoken voice in the classroom ence throughout the room. Friends Within the walls of that That poem was published boots and a wide sun-shielding hat. and his often-outlandish antics. of Andres say he was there that crowded, standing room only posthumously in the eponymous A peppered, broom-like mustache “It was difficult being his night. Herrick, publisher of In quarter of Arte Americas people book. sweeps over his upper lip and his ‘teacher,’ as he seemed to think it the Grove, and Augustine F. Por- remembered, celebrated, and Before Andres’ death he hands are hard and callous like the absurd that poetry could be taught,” ras, long-time friend of Andres, mourned the death of a poet that, gave the rights to his second un- souls he puts on canvas. wrote Garrett Hongo in a selection recounted a similar story from a most agree, never saw his potential published manuscript to his best Maceo, a young Yale and from In the Grove. “Yet, he learned, few years back. realized. friend, Daniel Chacon. Columbia-educated author and and so did I.” Chacon was speaking at an Andres died, indeed, as In The Grove now has the painter, spoke of his older brother It was a unique congregation event in San Diego. It was there John Keats wrote, “Like a sick repeat pleasure of giving the world with the same contradictions of creative minds. Accomplished Porras and Herrick met for the first Eagle looking at the sky.”