Immigration Because It Economy Could Not Survive With- Then Removed Them Altogether

Volume CX Edition 6 Published since 1949 April 5, 2006 FCC receives certificate affirming accreditation

the Academic Senate president, months after the college received has updated its website to illustrate money given to the library, said the by Matthew T. Mendez “with the understanding that we a warning regarding its accredited the steps the school has taken to school recognizes the “need to fol- Rampage Reporter will continue to make signifi cant status. meet the accreditation commit- low up to assure that the allocated progress toward remedying the The warning suggested tee’s standards. As of April 1, the funds result in buying the neces- Fresno City College’s ac- recommendations made by the that the college address several school’s accreditation report stated sary resources” that is needed to credited status has been extended 2005 accreditation team.” areas that the evaluation team did that the president’s offi ce has ana- meet accreditation standards. through 2012 via a certifi cate from The certifi cate, issued by not fi nd suffi cient for an accred- lyzed electronic communication Fresno City’s initial re- the Accrediting Commission for ACCJC executive director Barbara ited school. Those suggestions from more than 500 sources, and sponse to the warning issued by Community and Junior Colleges Beno, calmed what had been an included implementing a shared that the fi rst draft of the president’s the ACCJC is due Oct. 15, but the sent to the school president’s of- uneasy sense of ambiguity around governance committee, improv- offi ce program review has been bimonthly reports posted on the fi ce. campus among both staff members ing library materials, establishing completed. website have given everyone in- “My understanding of this and students. FCC president Ned a program review process, and The April 1 report, while volved the chance to review what document is that we will retain ac- Doffoney received the certifi cate districtwide planning. claming that the school is com- is being done and leave feedback creditation,” said Paula Demanett, on March 27, more than three Twice a month, Fresno City mitted to increasing the amount of to the president’s offi ce. Yoshino’s removes

Growingby Joseph Rios pains security Rampage Reporter cameras The aliens have invaded. by Jessyca Dewey Extra-terrestrials have been spot- Rampage Reporter ted all over the nation in their Toyota pickup truck-space cruis- ers migrating from fi eld to fi eld FCC student Kim Heintz’s without detection. wallet was stolen from the condi- Strangely, their tracks are ment bar of Yoshino’s Pacifi c Cafe not marked by crop circles char- on March 21. Heintz, a full-time acteristic to the species. No, ev- FCC student and student aide for erywhere these aliens go, they the school’s counseling depart- pull grapes, nectarines, cotton, and ment, was on a break from class almonds from branches and pack around 7:30 p.m. when she went them so they can be shipped across into Yoshino’s to get some food. the United States and throughout According to Heintz, after the world. placing her order, she set her wal- In December of 2005, The let down on the condiment bar House of Representatives passed a and stepped away for a moment bill criminalizing the presence of to get her food from the counter. illegal or undocumented workers Without realizing her wallet was in the United States. The Senate still on the counter, she fi nished her picked apart the harsh bill on meal and left the restaurant only to March 27, proposing a plan that realize later that she had forgotten would make it possible for residing her wallet. undocumented workers to obtain a She returned to Yoshino’s citizenship. later that evening but they had Under the House Bill, un- already closed. She then called the documented workers would be campus police, who said her wallet felons. Anyone aiding, housing, had not been turned in to the lost or transporting illegal aliens across and found and that the employees the border would be found guilty at Yoshino’s had not found it. of a felony as well. Heintz fi led a police report but was The house bill, HR4437, unsatisfi ed. would also add 700 miles of Having seen the security fencing along the Mexico-United cameras placed throughout the States border at points with the café, Heintz began to inquire about highest number of immigrant whether the theft may have been deaths. caught on tape only to be told that The Country responded to the cameras didn’t even have bat- the bill enthusiastically to say the teries in them. least. Highlighted by the conser- Heintz then brought the is- vative estimates of over 500,000 Photo by Jennifer Schmidt sue of the cameras to the attention people walking through the streets People line up in front of the Mexican Consulate in downtown Fresno. On most days, the line extends around the block. of the business manager, Michael of Los Angeles in protest, Mexi- Guerra, who, in turn asked the cans and opponents of the bill have “[The House Bill] was chastised proponents of the bill in Fresno Bee, “It’s an issue that’s owner of Yoshino’s, Tom Hagi- banded together to put a stop to, mean-spirited and callous,” said his statements to the press saying very emotional and critical to hara, to either fi x the cameras or what they believe, is a case of the Amaro. “Hopefully people will get that they were simply taking a future of America. The American take them out. Hagihara said he government blaming a group of activated, they’ll get animated and stand on immigration because it economy could not survive with- then removed them altogether. people for the nation’s economic get their message across.” is an election year. out immigrant labor.” Hagihara said that the wal- problems. “They’re just looking to “It’s perfect example of One issue that has not been let was misplaced on the left side Arturo Amaro has been point the fi nger,” said Jesus Mo- political grandstanding,” said widely brought up by the media is of the room where there were a Chicano/Latino Studies and lina, a student at FCC. “They don’t Amaro. how this bill would affect agencies Sociology Professor for the past want to say it, but it’s racist.” United Farm Workers Pres- and groups that deliver aid to these 30 years. Democrat Howard Dean ident, Arturo Rodriguez told the see Immigration p. 4 see Cameras p. 4 Offi ce: (559) 442-8263 Advertising: (559) 442-8262 Fax: (559) 265-5783 e-mail: [email protected] 2 Rampage News April 5, 2006 Cameras: FCC wanted cameras repaired or removed continued from Page 1 ingly, Contractor and owner agree to take “very honest gentlemen” and that “he has corners in which they formerly were. no cameras anyway. The cameras, which all necessary measures to prevent injury dealt with [the issue] about as appropriately “It’s strange they’re not here any- had been put into the restaurant about fi ve and loss to persons or property located on as he could.” more,” said Steven Hernandez, a student years ago according to Hagihara, had not the Owner’s premises.” The contract then Although the cameras could be seen who is a regular at the café. been working for quite some time and were later states “Contractor shall follow the as deceptive, several students who frequent Another regular, Allyson Fanning, privately provided without any contract Owner’s policies in dealing with improper Yoshino’s barely seemed to notice the said, “I didn’t even realize they were there between the school and the restaurant. How- conduct, and shall report all incidents to cameras, although they could point out the half the time.” ever, Heintz insists that she felt protected in the owner.” the presence of the cameras. Hagihara has already complied “It gave me a false sense of security,” to the request of Guerra’s by having the she said. camera’s removed so that no one may Although Guerra did ask that the be mislead to believe they are being cameras be removed or repaired, the busi- recorded. ness contract between the school and the “People post signs that say ‘Beware café does not specify any responsibility of Dog’ and they may not have a dog,” ex- RAMPAGE for security cameras. The contract states plained Guerra. “There is nothing in there FRESNO CITY COLLEGE 1101 E. UNIVERSITY AVE. “[the] contractor and owner shall each be that says [Yoshino’s] has to have cameras Letters to the editor and submissions to the separately responsible for the acts of their and they have to be working.” FRESNO, CA 93741 calendar will be accepted via e-mail or in person respective employees and agents. Accord- Guerra also stated that Hagihara is a noon-1 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, at The Rampage, Room SC- 211, above the book- Editor in chief: Quinn Robinson store. Please keep all letters to a maximum of News Editor: Clare Frederick 500 words. Business offi ce: Leah Edwards Sports editor: Quinn Robinson Newsroom: (559) 442-8263 Views Editor: Matthew T. Mendez Business: (559) 442-8262 Reviews Editor: Victoria McLoughlin Fax: (559) 265-5783 Photo editor: Jennifer Schmidt E-mail: Adviser: Dympna Ugwu-Oju [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Reporters [email protected] Jacob Wiens, Nigel Wojtak, Joseph Rios, Jessyca Dewey, Jeff Rodriguez, Herbert Graham, Rampage is an award-winning newspaper Nathan Tyree, Sean Felten, Sonya published biweekly by the Fresno City Col- Henson, Macrina Aivazian, Mike lege Journalism 5 program and is a member of Read Journalism Association of Community Colleges. Photography/ Views expressed in The Rampage are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily Graphics refl ect those of Fresno City College, its students, Photo by Jennifer Schmidt administration or the State Center Community College District. Students eat lunch at Yoshino’s Pacifi c Cafe. The cafe’s ownership has removed Russel Bourg, Nathan Tyree, Joseph Rios, Matthew T. Mendez, the security cameras that were not in service due to a “false sense of security.” Jennifer Schmidt, Clare Frederick April 5, 2006 News Rampage 3 CalWORKs students honored by Mike Read into the workforce by empowering faces of the many who overcame Rampage Reporter them with education. The state and more than the rest with a little county governments supply grants help from people who genuinely These 135 people should to help students with book costs, cared. not be in college. These 135 people transportation costs, daycare, tutor- Henderson brought the who are on welfare, who are single ing, and counseling; anything to celebration to a close with a parents with no high school educa- meet the needs of its students. well-themed quote by Eleanor tion and no transportation should “We try to alleviate stress,” Roosevelt. It read, “No one can not be attending this college. Henderson said. “We are here to make you inferior without your These 135 students should encourage. I don’t know any other consent.” This is the heart of much not be in school, let alone on the way to say it.” that CalWORKs does. Dean’s List. Testimonies were recorded In a world where many But they are. and displayed on the screen as a inherently have pre-supposed per- In overcoming a life of highlight for the evening. ceptions about those in the welfare hardship, these 135 students have Starting with Jamie, a single system, right perception of your started down a road of success mother of four, expecting a fi fth, fellow man has never been more and were honored for it April 3 in who now has an average GPA vital for a vibrant life. FCC’s theater. of 4.0. The video then moved to “It is my belief we are all CalWORKs, an organiza- James, a non-native speaker from one or two breaks away from wel- tion at FCC that supports these the southern part of Sudan who fare,” Henderson said, adding that students, took the evening and set now speaks English fl uently and in light of truly connecting with a it aside for them. understands what all students must human, these stereotypical perso- “These people don’t have do if they are to succeed. Summing nas surrounding those on welfare many reasons to celebrate. These it up in one statement he said, “Just fade away when a common ground are people that starve, have no attend class.” This lead to Jennifer is found. transportation, [are] single parents Connor, who closed the video in a “Let your resources work yet say ‘I’ll do whatever it takes,’” story that told of being given up for you,” Connor said. For there is said Sean Henderson, director of for adoption at the age of two and a light in FCC that seeks to bring Photo by Robin Vallentyne CalWORKs. reunited with her mother 20 years struggling people from the pit of Kristine Walters, a Dean’s List recipient for 2005, holds her daughter The goal of CalWORKs is to later with a life built in success. the realities of life and into one Lilley at the recognition reception for CalWORKs Dean’s List recipients. help transition people from welfare These people represent the that holds a brighter future.

by Sonya Hensen Rampage Reporter Fifty agencies participate in Disability Awareness Day

More than 50 community agencies Members of Far Sighted 4-H get the puppies the blind. The library is free of charge and wind chimes, calendars, and mosaics. participated in Disability Awareness Day when they are 8-10 weeks old. The trainers most of the materials are sent through the • Community Catalysts of California March 30, which was sponsored by Fresno take the puppies home to socialize them mail to the reader. Through this branch of provides services to over 900 people with City College’s DSP&S. and teach them basic obedience. When the the public library, 61,000 cassette books special needs throughout the state. Locally, By sponsoring this event, DSP&S dogs are about 18 months old, they are sent are available to readers in Fresno, Kings, the group meets every Monday. The group wanted to raise awareness and “to outreach back to Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc. for Madera, and Tulare counties. helps people with everything from menu to the community and let them know about professional training. Then Guide Dogs for “If people are unable to read a stan- planning and cooking, to teaching personal disabilities,” said Pam Rippe of DSP&S. the Blind, Inc. matches them with a visually dard printed book because they are blind, safety. “And what types of services and products impaired or blind person, at no cost to the have a visual disability, or just a disability • Fresno Adult School offers a vari- and agencies are out there to assist people blind person receiving the dog. The dogs that keeps them from being able to pick up, ety of programs. In addition to an Adults with disabilities and bring them all into one may be placed anywhere in the United States hold, turn the pages a regular book…they with Disabilities program, the school offers location. For people with disabilities it’s or Canada. can get books from us,” said Wendy R. courses for GED, ESL, and vocational train- diffi cult sometimes, to get around town and “It’s a good outreach program,” said Eisenberg, branch librarian. ing. There is also an enrichment program fi nd out what’s available.” Karen Harness, assistant club leader. • United Cerebral Palsy is a non- for children during the summer. The following are just a few of the • The Talking Book Library for the profi t health service agency. UCP helps “We’ve had very good responses,” organizations represented at the event: Blind is a branch of the County library, and patients with cerebral palsy learn how to said Elaine Clymer, Principal of Fresno • Fresno Far Sighted 4-H is a club that also part of a nation-wide program that use computers and surf the Internet. It also Adult School. “Lots of people have stopped raises puppies to be guide dogs for the blind. provides books on tape and in Braille for offers an art program where patients make by…it’s been an excellent day.” 4 Rampage News April 5, 2006 Give blood, get a shirt Immigration: Bill would make by Leah Edwards Rampage Reporter transplant 2 units, and a liver transplant 10 units. driving Grandma to the store a felony The Spring Blood Drive has People often get squeamish arrived. The Drive will take place at the idea of giving blood, but the undocumented workers. made up of legal and illegal resi- rent shortage of workers, a bill as in the Student Activities Center truth is it is important to be strong Linda Alanis is the interim dents. In some cases, the mother severe as HR 4437 would only from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 5. and see the need is far too great president of the not yet formed is legal and the father isn’t or tighten the strangle hold on valley According to the Mayoclinic.org to wimp out. Your gift of blood M.E.C.H.A. club at FCC. “I’m a the parents aren’t legal but the growers. only 5 percent of eligible donors can make the difference for many social worker and I deal with these children are. Some families have “We are currently in a crisis across the nation donate blood, people. One donation can help up people everyday,” said Alanis. grandparents who have been here in the San Joaquin Valley,” Autry but the number of transfusions to three people. “Under this new bill I would be a multiple generations and have told the Fresno Bee. “We need to nationwide increases by 9 percent If saving a life isn’t reward- criminal for doing my job.” deep roots in American soil. act quickly in order to keep the every year. ing enough, t-shirts will be given Cardinal Mahoney of the This House Bill threatens economy of the San Joaquin Val- The Blood Drive is vitally to those who donate. You have Roman Catholic Archdiocese in to uproot these families, tear them ley going.” important to people who will des- your chance to save lives and ob- Los Angeles urged parishioners apart, toss them back to a country This isn’t the first time the perately need this blood. Statistics tain free bragging rights. Do your to pray for humane reform of im- they no longer know then build immigration issue has been tack- show that more than 25 percent part and donate. migration laws. If the bill passed 700 miles of fence so they don’t led by United States Government. of Americans will require blood For more information you and it was made a felony to give come back. And to sweeten the President Ronald Reagan granted at least once in their lifetime. can contact the FCC Blood Drive aid to illegal immigrants, Mahoney deal, it’s a felony to try. amnesty to workers in 1985 with The Mayo Clinic’s statistics also contact persons at extension 8268 said, he would instruct his priests During the Senate Judiciary little response from the believed state an average hip replacement or Ralph Cabrera, at the Blood and faithful Catholics to defy the Committee meeting on March 27, mass of undocumented workers. typically uses one unit of blood, Center, (559) 224-2900, exten- law. Senator Lindsay Graham from In the 1960’s, the country a cardiac bypass 2 units, a heart sion 3022. The language in the House South Carolina spoke out ask- attempted to alleviate its labor bill suggests that felony charges ing members of the committee, shortage with the Bracero Pro- could be brought up for acts as “Where is home?” gram. Nearly a quarter of a million simple as driving your grand- He explained that many of Mexicans were brought across the mother to the grocery store or, in the undocumented workers have border under Government contract Spring Break ideas by Macrina Aivazian Alanis’ case, doing her job. been here so long that it would to work, almost exclusively, in night. You’ll come back wondering High school students across be ludicrous to simply send them agribusiness. Rampage Reporter where that picture of you was taken. the nation walked out of their “home.” The United States is home Hundreds of Mexicans For those you who want to Spring break -- a whole week classroom last week in protest of for them now. were cooped up in barns across party but can’t afford an out- of-town of no studying, no reading, and no 8 the bill. The comprehensive bill that the southwest. The eager workers trip, no need to worry. You need a a.m. classes -- leaving students with so They hit the streets in mass, came out of the Senate has both were met with small living quar- few cases of beer, a good BBQ, some much free time they are left with no making pilgrimages to their re- parties split. President Bush is lob- ters, little food, and meager pay. dancing music, some friends in your other option but to take a vacation. spected city halls. Students from bying for a Guest-Worker program A small portion of the Bra- backyard and VWALA! You too have Whether a student partakes in Roosevelt, Fresno High, and even that would lead to the eventual ceros pay check was taken out by the recipe for a fun spring break. the stereotypical MTV Spring Break as far as Reedley made the trip to citizenship of participants. the Government with the promise Recently though, more and in Miami or simply drives a few hours Fresno City Hall chanting a say- He said in an address last that it would be repaid. A large more people are finding new ways to to visit family or friends for a few days, ing championed by the late civil week dealing with the issue that percentage of the workers never spend their week of freedom. Rachel a break from our normally stressful rights leader Cesar Chavez, “Si Se the immigrants do work, “Ameri- saw that money. Individual suits Otto, a Fresno City College student life and running around frantically is Puede” and reciting the Pledge of cans will not do.” have yielded returns, but most of said she spent last year’s spring break highly desired. It’s nice to get away Allegiance. Fresno Mayor Alan Autry the original Braceros that have volunteering in a small village in sometimes and relax or just to not have Though many of the pro- supports the idea of a comprehen- since died or are in their upper 70’s Mexico. “It felt good to spend my to deal with the stress. testers were not of legal voting sive bill that would reform immi- and 80’s never saw the money they time helping others and spreading the Vacation adventures can turn age, the bill would affect many of gration laws with criminalizing the earned all those years ago. word of God,” she said. Rachel isn’t into quite a hefty expense, though them directly and indirectly. immigrants already here. alone. This new trend has become unless you choose to ignore the Numerous families are He fears that with the cur- very popular. Youth groups around backbreaking expenses in order to Fresno are taking organized trips to have a tranquil getaway. In reality help Hurricane Katrina victims as though, most of us cannot afford a well as to other parts of the country luxurious trip but still want to feel and the world. we’ve achieved something during our So whether you are looking for spring break. a crazy party, a night out on the town, Here are some ways that or an opportunity to help people in spring-breakers can spend their free need during your spring break, hurry. time. You’re running out of time. For those with a wild and free Memories are waiting to be spirit -- a trip to the beach with your made this year, so get out there and closest friends where you strictly lay make the best of Spring Break 2006! out on in the sand all day, and party all Sports April 5, 2006 5 Softball preps for final leg

FCC softball team in middle of pack for CVC title as season winds down.

said Brown. “It gives us a little we played good defense and more space from them in the came out with the win.” Upcoming Softball Schedule by Quinn Robinson conference standings and that’s Even with the tough loss Sports Editor what we wanted to happen.” suffered at the hands of Merced, April 6 vs Reedley 2 p.m. FCC’s Tina Gonzalez and coach Williams remained opti- Merced’s Nicky Brown we go- mistic about the season, much of In the thick of things. ing toe to toe on the mound, try- which still needs to be played. April 8 vs Solano College (DH) 12 p.m. It’s a cliché that is often ing to see which pitcher would “Defensively we had a thrown around in the sports be the first one to blink. great game,” said Williams. “We world when a team is right Merced was the first to had two outs against them when April 20 vs Modesto (DH) 1 p.m. smack in the middle of a heated break through with a run. they scored their first run and race for a conference crown. In the top of the fourth, then they got the home run later Fresno City College has with runners on base, the Devils on and things like that happen. April 22 @ Taft (DH) 1 p.m. had to privilege over the last knocked in a run courtesy of a We have a lot of games couple of years to use that single to take a 1-0 lead. left and I still think we have cliché’ in a lot of conference The Devils would add a chance to take this [CVC April 25 vs. West Hills 2 p.m. races. another run in the top of the title].” None of these scenarios sixth inning with a two out solo As of March 30, the Rams have involved the softball team home run that would push the were 16-14 overall and posted the past couple of seasons as lead to 2-0. an 8-5 record in conference. they have been in a rebuilding The Rams had a couple FCC competed in a two- process. more opportunities to get some day tournament up in Saratoga This year, however, the runs on the board in the late in- on April 1 and 2, but results softball team appears to be nings, but Brown kept the FCC from the tournament were not heading back to the days of hitters on its toes and pitched made available by the time of conference championships and her way to a complete game, production. postseason appearances. seven-strikeout performance for A doubleheader sched- With a 14-12 record over- the victory. uled with Porterville College all and a 6-4 Central Valley “The game today did not on April 4 was postponed due to Conference record, the Rams surprise me in any way,” said the amount of rain that has been took to the field in a home game Devils coach Steve Cassady. hitting the Valley the past few against CVC rival Merced Dev- “They play defense well and we days and no make-up date has ils on March 23 just missing a had to keep their hitters at bay yet to be set. Weather permit- victory as they lost a close 2-0 and hope that our hitters can get ting; the Rams will try to resume ballgame. enough [offense]. action on April 6 at home when Photo by Jennifer Schmidt “I’m just glad we won,” On this day, our pitcher they host the Reedley Tigers at Fresno City College’s Cindy Chavez tries to beat out a throw at did what she needed to do and 2 p.m. first base in a game against Merced College on March 23. Ayala hammers out a feat Track team makes up rained out event where Rams do well.

by Matthew T. Mendez of 43.07, giving the Rams the top Palmer finished second-to- dan Murphy could only do well Fresno City’s next sched- Rampage Reporter two spots in the women’s hammer none in the 400m dash, finishing enough to place third with a toss of uled track meet, the Ed Adams throw. first with a time of 51.09, while 12.19m, but he came in first during Invitational, will be held in Salinas Ayala and Vizcarra-Gam- freshman Anthony Brown was the hammer throw by launching the at 9:00 a.m. on April 8. boa also placed first and second fourth with a score of 54.33. hammer 38.96m. The Fresno City College in the women’s discus throw with Freshman Bryant Wash- men’s track & field team finished scores of 45.08m and 36.06m ington had quite a day during the first and the women’s team finished respectively. Ayala earned the top Fresno Invitational, finishing first second in the 2006 Fresno Invita- spot in the shot put event as well in both the 110m hurdles and the tional track meet on April 1. with a 12.19m toss; Vizcarra-Gam- 400m hurdles. Freshman Cruz Ad- The men’s team ended the boa was third with a 10.24m toss. ams finished second in the 3,000m meet with a total score of 182, In the women’s 3000m steeplechase, while sophomore beating out its closest competitor, steeplechase, Rams’ freshman Martin Palavacini came in third. Hartnell, who had scored 175.50; Anna Joyner took first place with FCC placed second beno other men’s team in the compe- a time of 15:12.9, and in the high hind Hartnell in both the men’s tition scored higher than 105. The jump event, fellow freshman 4x100 and 4x400 relay races, but FCC women’s score of 92 placed Kimberly Montag set a new state sophomore Tim Bautista came in them as the distant runner-up to leading mark by leaping 5’5’’. first place in the pole vault with a Hartnell’s total of 228. In the men’s 200m dash, score of 4.59m. Michael Pierce, a FCC sophomore Sharon Fresno City almost swept the freshman, finished third in the pole Ayala turned the track meet into leader board by taking first and vault by leaping 3.50m in the air. her own personal breakthrough third place. Freshman Rodney Sophomore Phil Garvin event by setting a new nation Oliver finished the race ahead of finished second in the long jump Photo by Robyn Vallentyne leading mark in the hammer throw everyone else with a time of 22.53, event, and Mike Cheese topped Competitors from schools across the state compete in a track by tossing the hammer 56.03m. and sophomore Emanuel Palmer the triple jump event with a mark meet hosted by FCC at Ratcliffe Stadium on April 1. The meet Freshman Nancy Vizcarra-Gam- was close behind him by finishing of 13.35m. was originally supposed to take place on March 25 but due to boa placed second with a throw the race in 23.12 seconds. In the men’s shot put, Jor- heavy rain, was put off until the following week. 6 Rampage Sports April 5, 2006 A storm is brewing FCC’s baseball team is lighting up the scoreboard like an electrical storm

Upcoming Schedule a hit, and fourteen knocked in at team in the bottom half of our by Jeff Rodriguez least one run. conference.” “It was nice to see some of Larry Holscher (4-2, 1.69 April 5 @ Porterville 1 p.m. Rampage Reporter the other players get an opportu- ERA) recorded the win for FCC. nity,” said Scott. O’Reilly went 2-4 for the Rams. April 6 vs COS 2:30 p.m. Derek O’Reilly had a solid Oliver went 2-3 to help the Rams day at the plate going 3-4 with 2 recover from the deficit. April 8 vs. Merced College 1 p.m. RBIs. Sean Halton added to the Taft had revenge fresh barrage by hitting a double and on their minds when FCC visited April 11-13 Hancock Tournament TBA knocking in three runs, as Chase the Cougars on April 1. The Rams Thomas and Kyle Garhert went had no plans for another come- April 18 @ Merced College 2:30 p.m. a combined 5-6 at the plate with from-behind win. They left no Thomas driving in two runs. room for doubt in this one as FCC The Fresno City College The Tigers only picked pounded on the Cougars for a baseball team’s recent meeting up five hits the entire afternoon 16-2 win. In the fourth, FCC had with the Reedley Tigers wasn’t against FCC’s Daniel Mora who their second ten run inning of the a pretty one. FCC outscored the upped his record to 4-2 with a season. Carlton Wilder hit a triple Tigers 32-1in the two games to respectable 2.81 ERA. going 2-2 with 2 RBIs as Robert continue their ferocious confer- FCC’s trip to Porterville Walden went 2-3 hitting a double ence play. ” This showed our team on March 25 was postponed due to and knocking in 2 RBIs of his own. has a lot of depth,” said Coach the weather conditions. This game Brian Oliver went 2-2 and hit a Ron Scott. is rescheduled to April 3. Weather home run with 4 RBIs as Taylor FCC took the short trip also caused March 28 game to Lewis recorded his fifth win to take to Reedley March 21, to start their be postponed. Porterville was his record to 5-0. scheduled home and home series. scheduled to make a trip to Euless FCC (22-6, 13-2 CVC) still The Rams offense came right out Park. Porterville is now scheduled holds the top spot in the NorCal of the gates, teeing off on the Ti- to visit Euless Park on April 19. coach’s poll. They moved past gers’ pitching. Matt Lieb went 3-3 Taft traveled to Euless Modesto and Merced for the top with 2 RBIs, while Brian Oliver hit Park March 30 ready for the task spot in Central Valley Conference two doubles with 2 RBIs on a 3-4 that FCC was going to present. standings. day. Sean Halton added 2 RBIs of Taft jumped out to a 3-1 lead in “We are a game ahead of his own for the Rams en route to an the early innings as their pitching Modesto in conference,” said 11-1 victory. Kris Haycock went was cruising through the Rams Scott. “I think it will come down 2-2 with a double. Taylor Lewis vaunted lineup. FCC had their to us and Modesto for the confer- (4-0, 4.25 ERA) struck out five backs against the wall with two ence championship.” Reedley batters while grabbing the outs in the eighth and still trailing FCC has a home and home win. 3-1. coming up with COS. They will FCC’s offense did not Mark Pestorich changed then travel to Visalia on April 4 miss a beat when Reedley visited all that with one swing of the bat. and then host the Giants at Euless Euless Park, on March 23 as FCC Pestorich singled in two runs. The Park April 6. FCC winds up the cruised to on easy 21-0. The Rams Rams completed the comeback to week with a road game against went through three different Tigers grab the victory 4-3. Merced on the April 8, and then Photo by Jennifer Schmidt pitchers in the fifth inning, scoring “It was a great win,” said the Rams travel to Santa Maria Fresno City College continues to receive superb pitching from its ten runs on nine hits in the process. Scott. “We don’t want to lose for the Hancock Tournament on staff including #3 who is 4-2 with a 2.81 ERA. In his last start, he Fifteen different Rams collected at home, especially when it is a April 11. went 6 innings while only allowing three hits and seven strikeouts

Think you can do better than this? Join the Rampage: writers, photographers, cartoonists, graphic artists, and marketing and business students April 5, 2006 Sports Rampage 7 Excessive penalization on the offensive NFL adds a few rules to the 2006 season, including harsher penalties to deter endzone antics

by Quinn Robinson Sports Editor

Palmer drops back to pass; much. he throws deep down the middle Players like Chad Johnson, to Johnson. Caught. At the thirty, Terrell Owens and Steve Smith the twenty-five, twenty, fifteen, will still do their patented—well ten, five, touchdown. at least it should be—end zone Now the real game begins. dances every time their agile bod- The past few seasons, fans ies cross the pylons. And referees of the National Football League will still take three to four minutes have witnessed almost everyone to review a play that questions who’s scored a touchdown break whether a players knee was down out with some sort of end zone before the ball came loose and was celebration. recovered by the opposing team. Whether it is good: Chad What many in the NFL Johnson. Or bad: Warren Sapp. front office may not realize is that The “celebration” is part of the end zone celebrations are part of game, as we know it today. the game and are considered en- Now as the NFL’s competi- tertaining, let alone very amusing tion committee met in the off sea- by those who wish they could get son to discuss these antics along away imitating the same dance on with a few other policies that have a Saturday afternoon at the park. now been put in place for the 2006 The NFL is slowly turning season, many fans find themselves back to the so-called “No Fun wondering what will come of the League” that many sports com- rule changes. mentators have dubbed it in the Some of the new rules past with the creation of the new brought up: disallowing quarter- rule. backs to get hit below the knees so The Competition Commit- they don’t suffer career threatening tee should just let the athletes play Cincinnati Bengals star receiver Chad Johnson has promised that he will form injuries a la Carson Palmer and and express their creativity freely a competition committee of his own with Terrell Owens and Steve Smith to Daunte Culpepper is a good way to after all the bumps and bruises discuss innovative ways to celebrate their trips to the end zone in 2006 go so the talent that is in the NFL they get while trying to reach the today can last a few more years promised land and just think of it than it would have without this this way: type of rule. As long as a Piston/Pacer Throwing penalty flags for like brawl doesn’t erupt on an NFL celebrations and cutting down the field near you, the celebrations challenge time on plays from 90 should be allowed to stay. seconds to 60 really doesn’t mean

New Orleans Saints receiver Joe Horn had a hard time hearing the voice on the other line after he scored a touchdown in a

Photos courtesy of Google.com 2002 home game. Horn received a hefty fine for this celebration as he pulled a cell phone out from under an end zone goal- Celebrations like this are ones that are still going to be deemed necessary by the NFL front office. Spiking the post and pretended to dial a friend watching him on television at home. ball, Lambeau leaps and dunks will still be allowed by officals without receivng a 15-yard penalty. April 5, 2006 Rampage Rampage 8 Views April 5, 2006 9 Should we be more strict towards illegal immigrants? We’re all the same, no side of the road, I would never walk away. Some new laws are defi nitely needed, but not matter where we come Sorry, you’re illegal, I can’t help you. No. from, so get over it A law that says I’d be a criminal for help- the ones that are currently being proposed ing out an illegal is one you can guarantee I would break. The current legislation just isn’t Another thing we should break is the cutting it. Part of the process of becoming traditional thought that an illegal can’t call a legal resident includes a certain period of I wonder this land home. If the Mexican immigrants time of illegality and this just doesn’t seem how at-home the want to call this land home, they should. effi cient. People generally have to sneak immigration pro- Wow. Did I even just write that sentence into the country in order to even begin the testers really feel as if it was something profound? How far process of gaining legal status. here in Fresno. have we come as a society if I just had to Yet the new laws that the Senate They were pret- type that out? This was their homeland after Jessyca Dewey is trying to pass don’t exactly fi t the bill. Clare Frederick ty mad after all, all, a long time ago. Instead of making over the current system walking in the rain We can get past all that though. I see Rampage Reporter Rampage Reporter so that immigration is easier to control, to a near-by town, a land between Canada and South America not to mention more fair, they just want to or to the closest city hall, just to prove a that will have no boarders one day. I’m not America. Land of the free. Home of make things more diffi cult for immigrants, point. I understand their frustrations. If I talking now, but hundreds of years from the brave. That is, of course, unless you are whether they are already here or not. was here for a while, working hard, being a now there will be one huge nation of people, not American. good person, and suddenly someone told me called the United Countries of America. Land of the free? The dictionary Throwing illegal immigrants into I was a felon for not signing some papers, People won’t care so much about who’s defi nition of “free” is “not imprisoned or prisons will not solve our immigration or for not going through some process, or what race, or what part of the boarder you’re enslaved” and “not controlled by obligation policy. Even U.S. prisons have better living for even helping out an illegal in need, I’d from. Instead of it being a Mexican issue, or the will of another.” And brave? Let’s see. conditions than that of the average Mexican raise some hell too. it’ll be a human race thing. You think I’m To me, risking one’s life in rough waters on civilian. Coming from a place where there I guess that would make me a law- dreaming? Well then maybe I should go makeshift rafts or running across freeways is no consistent form of nourishment, no breaker, and I’ve got a few illegal friends. back to sleep. and leaving all that you’ve ever known be- provision of shelter and no working and I’ve partied in garages with the doors wide Perhaps while I sleep, I could ques- hind you in another county in order to offer sanitary sewer systems, to many, the U.S. open on a hot summer night, surrounded by tion the whole timing of it all too. Like Rush your children better lives takes bravery. prison system may sound like a much better people who are here illegally. We’d drink Limbaugh was saying the other day about Now let’s revisit this slogan- “land of option. Simply enforcing the illegality of Budweiser, look at guns, and watch a boxing how the anti-war people must really be the free and home of the brave.” Maybe we immigrants would not help our situation. match or two, while eating carnitas. Their jealous about the way the immigration issue should get a new slogan. How does “Stay the Perhaps the Senate does have some kids were so happy, even to be playing with has taken control of the political spotlight. heck out of our heartless country” sound? clue when they talk of passing legislature something as simple as a stick. Heck yeah I But where is this immigration thing really Hmm. It doesn’t sound great to me. regarding work visas. Perhaps if the gov- was the only white girl there, but it was fun. coming from? It seemed like it appeared But yet, this seems to be what the ernment created and enforced some way Let em stay, I say. out of nowhere, strategically placed to Senate is trying to say. They tried to make to ensure that the immigrants were indeed Yeah, I know law is law, and they’re possibly hide the negativity of the war in being an illegal alien a felony. Hell, they contributing to the economy rather than tak- breaking the law, but the government has no Iraq. Sure the accusation of puppet master even tried to make being in a car with an il- ing away from it, some legislature would be money to enforce the law, which is really is lofty, but sometimes you have to call a legal alien a felony. Okay, okay... so they’re helpful. out-dated. The law just needs to be changed. spade a spade. changing this proposed legislation. We still The laws we need aren’t laws How many illegal citizens get pulled over in This situation could really be a lot get the point. that further criminalize the illegal aliens a day, and the cop just writes up a ticket and worse. We should be glad that we have this It’s pretty easy to make anti-im- we currently have residing in the country. sends them off? It’s a lot, people. There’s no protesting thing with Mexicans, and not the migration legislation sound like anti-hu- The laws we need aren’t laws that make it money for enforcement. This was obvious French, who had a million people protest- manitarian and many times, they can be. nearly impossible for people to immigrate during the protests. If they had money, INS ing that new job law, which would allow an However, as uncompassionate as they may to the land of opportunity. We do need im- would have shown up with a big load of employer to fi re you for no reason within the seem, such laws may eventually begin migration laws but if we put up brick walls, busses and haul off every single one of the fi rst two years after being hired. In Califor- to turn the tide in our treatment of illegal it would no longer be called the land of op- illegal protesters to whatever country they nia, an employer can fi re you whenever. Ha! aliens. portunity. If we made it a felony to even be had come from. The French protesters closed down airports Undoubtedly, the U.S. needs to in the car with an illegal alien, it would no Besides not having enough money and the Eiffel Tower for something we’ve reform the immigration system. Although longer be called the land of the free. If we to enforce the proposed immigration law, always had to deal with. Can you imagine this shouldn’t be done by building walls failed to deal with the actual issues rather the simple act of humanitarianism is more the scenario that would emerge if the im- and training militia, more restrictions on than attack them at the base of the problem, important to me than any man-made law. migration issue involved the French instead immigration should defi nitely be put into it would no longer be called the home of the If there were an illegal person dying on the of the Mexicans? place. brave. Campus Voices by Nathan Tyree Should America have stricter immigration laws?

Carrie Hubble, Chelsea Bieker Wendy Rith Moaaz Gill Keegan Conway Journalism & Amorette Guzman Architecture Engineering Political Science English Music “Yes, because it “No, people tend to “No, I don’t think so. I “Not really, if some- “Yes, because I would cut down on smug- forget about the many produc- think right now we don’t have thing isn’t broken, then it think they need to come in gling illegal things like tive immigrants that come to a major problem, so we don’t doesn’t need to be ﬁ xed.” the correct way and ﬁ x the babies, drugs, and weap- America from all over the need a drastic change.” ons.” world.” tall fence.” 10 Rampage Views April 5, 2006 Forget MySpace, embrace YouTube while you still can. I know everyone is currently in love with that other website, but there’s this new site that’s only been around for a year and it kicks MySpace’s you-know-what.

pugnacious Of course, many people grown accustomed to. kitten chal- will not click on your video Maybe I shouldn’t be lenging an once they see it’s your unfunny writing about it. Too damn elder cat to butt and not really Dave Chap- bad. a wrestling pelle, but still, many idiots Everyone has an old TV match. Kit- will click on your video just show that they used to love but ties always because they’re bored. God never get to see anymore, and p r o d u c e bless America. some of us even have dozens fan-pleasing Matthew T. Mendez Speaking of America, try of them. Yeah, most old shows video clips, typing in “We stand as one” on Rampage Reporter are out on DVD by now, but if so you can your YouTube search engine. you’re anything like me, you n e v e r g o I’m not sure, but you just might If you’re anything like don’t have the money to be wrong with find the most touching display me, you hate MySpace, but wasting on them. some good of patriotism this world could you’re on it everyday and you I enjoy tubing unreleased o l d - f a s h - have ever imagined (extreme check your unread messages episodes of the original Teenage ioned feline sarcasm should be noted). It’s a more than your business email Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon. I ballyhoo. homemade video by some idiot address. Shame on you. also enjoy destroying my brain M a y - from New Jersey who wrote If you haven’t heard of cells by watching Pinky and the b e y o u ’ r e his own song as a tribute to the YouTube, then you’re nothing Brain, Animaniacs, and Inspec- just one of victims of Sept. 11. like me, and you should prob- tor Gadget, among others. those freaks YouTube. Those of you who are A noble idea? Yes. ably thank God for that. Any- You know how you watch that likes to constantly video overly concerned with social- A good idea? Hell no. It’s way, despite MySpace’s recent a show now that you used to tape themselves. Well, now izing should probably get off probably the ugliest thing I’ve stranglehold on the online com- love when you were a kid and you can force millions of other the computer anyway. Stupid ever seen in my entire life, and munity, some of us have found you say to yourself, “What the people to watch them online. MySpace. one of the funniest. a much more productive way to hell was I thinking?” Ninja Tur- All you have to do is paste the If you’re a fan of foreign I am confident that You- completely waste our time. tles is not one of those shows html code into the designated Tube has something for just I can’t explain exactly for me; it’s as cool today as it commercials packed with a humorous twist, just type in about everybody. Personally, I what YouTube is, but I’ll try: was fifteen years ago. spend most of my time tubing YouTube is everything anyone But there aren’t just TV “man vs. bear” in the search engine. You’ll find a hilarious live performances by Tool and could have ever wanted in a shows on YouTube, there are A Perfect Circle. You, on the website; it’s everything you clips of old standup acts, hard- ad for John West’s Red Salmon in which a man and a grizzly other hand, had better start tub- never will be. Millions of view- to-find commercials, music ing before the FCC limits the ers upload their own videos videos, and movie trailers. bear are engaged in a kung-fu battle by a river for the bear’s website’s access and restricts onto the web as often as they Still, many people are reluc- the type of videos users are want. Also, it has a crapload tant to spend their designated salmon meal. You may happen to be allowed to upload. So, when of copyrighted material, so MySpace time on another web- space, and label your video a fan of cute animal clips, so given the chance, what would pretty soon it’s not going to site. I can only assume that is something that you know lots type in “cat boxing,” and you’ll you tube? exist anymore--at least not in because there is pretty much no of people will search for, like find an adorable little video of a the manner that us Tubers have way to talk to your friends on “Dave Chappelle.” God is not a conservative homophobe Even Christians have a tough time distinguishing the faithful from the stereotypical and censorship they concealed Since when did George the people of the Catholic faith will never stop trying to reach the truth while killing off those Bush represent Jesus? Of all the we could say they are all child that standard. practicing homosexuality and politicians that have been raised molesters. Or if we looked at The God of my Chris- eavesdropping on its citizens with a foundation of “Christian the people of the Muslim faith tian faith came down in the for the sake of national secu- values,” since when were they we could say they are suicidal flesh of Jesus to heal the bro- rity. the officially anointed as the lunatics. ken people of this world. The Sound a little familiar? spokesmen of my God. Those that do look ministry here on earth was an As I sat through it I I bring all this up be- to these people as the whole eternal metaphor for what He actually found myself getting cause I do not like a lot of what reason for believing or not be- is doing now. It is a good thing. offended. I felt like my faith I hear on the radio about recent lieving do themselves a severe Better than anything you have Mike Read and my God were being por- political movements. It is not injustice. The journey for truth heard before. He was a friend to trayed as something that fosters that I disagree with the content comes down upon the shoulders people that did no have it right, hate and oppression and makes Rampage Reporter of their message but more of the of the seeker and is revealed to those who were confused and every one want to rebel and over all vibe. in the quite solitude of your needed something greater than drink vodka all day. I felt like These debates are shap- heart. God is not a homo- what the world has to offer, to the movie was talking to me ing my God into this republican The bottom line is we phobe. those who need healing and because I have come to associ- homophobe when he is not are all hypocrites trying to do God is not a Republi- love. He came to save us. ate myself with Christ and His this. He is love. He is a God what we think is best. A lot of can. This is the God so teachings. beyond our comprehension that the time we will poorly repre- A lot of the thoughts to many serve imperfectly. What is more notewor- sits waiting for his mankind sent Christ and the things of come stem from a recent film We are but mere men thy is that I instinctively felt to acknowledge His presence God. We will continue to do I saw called V for Vendetta. It and can do nothing perfectly, this; that because they were amidst the debate He holds for this as long as we exist, but we so please, be patient with us. was a great flick and culturally ripping on the Republican the standard of his creation. relevant with a strong political Party they were ripping on me It is important to note undercurrent concerning the because I was a Christian. the involvement of mankind conservative Republican Par- Somewhere in this in anything usually turns out ty’s view. the Republicans have come to messed up, including involve- The message was an ex- represent Jesus? What? ment with God. If we looked at treme foreshadowing of what conservative values might look SPRING WORK like if implemented in a fascist $12.25 base/appt, ﬂ exible schedules, form. The government’s faith sales/service, no exp. nec, conditions in God was an excuse to sup- apply, ages 18+ call 222-7527 press the people. Through terror www.workforstudents.com Reviews April 5, 2006 11

Another epic battle in the war of the sexes somewhat of a brain won’t bring them up if they know what’s good for them. Why must we avoid the topic? Because ignorance is bliss. Who wants to know that their guy has had ______girlfriends (I’ll Vicci vs. Jake let you fill in the blanks). The numbers can be depressing and disheartening for a girl who has a competitive edge. So here’s what the unli- Chivalry The Ex censed psychologist, Mr. Wiens thinks would be a proactive solu- tion: don’t ask, don’t tell. We’ve in the Files all heard this policy before, but let’s use it in a different context. The Ex It’s pretty common for a Files are like a cavity that can easily 21st new partner to be curious about an be avoided. Avoid the sweetness old partner. of knowing all the details of all the But why do girls obsess exes. The sweetness only lasts a century about their guy’s ex-girlfriends, as while, then it’s on to the painful and if she’s still a threat? annoying cavity that will eat away T h r o u g h o u t h i s t o r y, The “Ex Files” have been at the relationship. If that small chivalry has played a major a topic of discussion among my amount of sweet goodness is worth part in male-female rela- friends lately, and I couldn’t help all the pain, then go right ahead. But tions. but wonder... should exes really really, how good is it to know? Chivalry comes from be an issue? I mean, they are in So ladies, don’t bring it up. the French word “cheva- the past, so should guys ever bring Just leave it a mystery. lier”, meaning knight. In them up again? The relationship got There are so many other medieval times, the chival- ity of spirit. sour for a reason. Don’t we have important aspects to a relationship. rous knight was “gracious Manners cost noth- being; it’s about honoring the right to throw the mold out and Let’s focus on the good stuff! I and gentle [towards noble ing, but too many men one’s fellow man as much never speak of it again? know a good argument feels good ladies]” according to online overlook them when on a as impressing a lady friend. For some reason, girls are once in a while and keeps the spark encyclopedia, Wikipedia. date. Spending a fortune It’s about being as noble to obsessed with knowing every de- going, but don’t cross a line that F o r e x a m p l e , i t w a s on a memorable dinner one’s church and country tail about ex girlfriends. This truly might cause permanent damage. once customary for a man to counts for little if funda- as one is to her parents. baffl es me. I wouldn’t want to know Unless your man is having place his coat over a puddle mentals are forgotten; no Manners are crucial, even how hot an ex was or how brilliant late night phone calls, or show- to prevent a lady getting her man wants his company to if people are strangers. they were! This type of behavior ing up with a new sweet scent on feet wet. Sir Walter Raleigh be memorable for the wrong So why is this col- screams insecurity. And if insecu- his shirt, then stop the harping. scored big points with his reasons. umn directed specifically rity doesn’t exist in the relationship, You might just send him running queen when he did this back Holding the door open at men rather than both then it’s about to! off into the arms of that ex, who in Renaissance times. makes a difference, as does sexes? The reality is that Guys usually don’t bring wasn’t even in his thoughts until R a l e i g h m a y w e l l allowing a woman to pass some believe that opening up ex girlfriends. Guys who have you brought her up! have been familiar with through first. Taking a doors and pulling out chairs the Code of Chivalry, com- woman’s coat, and offering are particularly non-macho. posed by Leon Gautier; it one’s own when it gets cold Minding one’s p’s and q’s advised knights, among seems to happen less and can sometimes be viewed as many things, to be gener- less, but stands out when unappealingly effeminate. ous. it does. Guys, take it from While few women ex- I t ’ s i m p o r t a n t t o a woman: chivalry is hot. pect a man to sacrifice remember that chivalrous Be a gentleman not only to his clothing every time it acts are not reserved simply your girlfriend, but to her rains, many appreciate a for date nights. Gentle- best friend, postman, and little generosity. And this manly behavior shouldn’t garbage collector; you’ll doesn’t mean that men need be turned on simply in separate yourself from the to save for a sports car or the company of a desir- rest of the crowd...and let’s diamond ring. What makes able female. As Gautier face it, getting noticed, if Coming soon to a rela- a big impact on the fairer implied hundreds of years you’re lucky, sometimes tionship near you sex, even today, is generos- ago, chivalry is a state of leads to getting laid. In Hollywood, it’s who you know

Now, if you’re a fan of Paris, likely wouldn’t have made it much sister,” but really, it is not quite fair to continue to go unnoticed all the while please forgive me for what I’m about past the age of three. compare the two. By the same token, people like Paris Hilton and Ashlee to say. Oh, wait. No, actually, you Yet still this dumb dame is it’s far from fair that Ashlee oh-so- Simpson- who are famous solely be- can just jump off of a cliff because still estimated to have made $6.5 conveniently borrowed her sister’s cause of their families- were gloating Paris Hilton deserves all the bashing million dollars from 2004 to 2005 fame for her own benefi t. Particular- in the spotlight. she can get. and this is money she made all by ly when her music sucks. Honestly, Why is this? Who really First of all, Paris really is herself. Well, I guess you wouldn’t it’s so screechy that it might actually thinks that Paris Hilton and Ashlee just not that good looking. She kind exactly say all by herself… The point be damaging to the ear. Simpson really make viable contri- of always has that “deer-caught-in- is that it is money that she at least Why do we even know who butions to the entertainment indus- the-headlights” look. Add that to the worked for. these people are? Why are their try? If the title of a song is “La, La”, Jessyca Dewey fact that she doesn’t look like she has However, even that is stretch- names instantly so well-known, is it really worth recording? And is a Rampage Reporter eaten in weeks and you get stuck ing it. To say that she “worked for” while actors like Matt Damon -who perfume really worth buying simply with a starving deer about ready to the money that she made off of her is undoubtedly talented, dedicated because it comes in a little pink bottle get run over by a Range Rover. new perfume line is a kind of a loose and driven- struggle to be noticed? labeled “Paris Hilton”? No. On the other hand, is a feel- There are people in this world Have I mentioned that she term. Shrugging your shoulders and We have all heard the story good movie like “Good Will Hunt- who are just naturally inclined to be is as dumb as a doornail? This is saying “Hmm… I think I want to sell of the struggling young Hollywood ing”, a moving tale about a math- successful. They have this undeni- the woman that coined the phrase my own perfume” does not make a actor and it’s funny to think that whiz janitor getting discovered and able drive and, usually, the person- “Wal-Mart… Do they like make working woman. She and Ashlee Matt Damon was once so unknown. rising in the ranks worth watching? ality, intellect, and talent to go right walls there?” Let’s just say that if Simpson would make great friends. Damon, an incredibly talented indi- I’ll leave that one up to you... along with it. Then there are people survival of the fi ttest really was the Simpson Jr. is best known for vidual, went to audition after audi- like Paris Hilton. rule of the day, Miss Hilton very being “Jessica’s less attractive little tion and took role after role only to April 5, 2006 Reviews Rampage 12 HBO lifts the Giving Thrice as much lid on student Joseph Rios Dustin Kensrue of Thrice sings in front demonstrations Rampage Reporter of a Fresno crowd at Taste of Chaos Forget all the tired notions March 27. Fresnans that led up to the walkout, through the about musicians; forget the images crowded Selland eyes of Paula Crisostomo, a senior at of sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll. Those Arena for bands Lincoln High School in East LA. days are fading almost as quickly as like As I Lay Dying, In an early scene, Crisostomo the rockers who worked hard to build Atreyu, Story of stands watch while her friend relieves that rep. the Year, and The herself behind a bush because the More and more often, bands Deftones, who Joseph Rios bathrooms were locked during lunch. are coming out of the woodwork that headlined the show In their history class they read about have a charitable heart and a sincere after Thrice. Rampage Reporter the Civil War, but are surprised to see desire to use their music as a mode for that the Mexican contribution is left helping people. Enough was enough. out of the text. I had the chance to sit down While the nation fought Com- Crisostomo and members from with Riley Breckinridge, the drummer munism and the war in Vietnam, Mexi- other East LA high schools draft a from the band Thrice, just before his cans students in Los Angeles were still Photo by Joseph Rios survey for students to speak out on the band took the stage at Taste of Chaos struggling to get the bathrooms open treatment of Mexicans. Responses are, March 27. Thrice has made it perfectly during their lunch hour. for the most part, the same. clear that they are not just a band out to They read books about a his- “The key issue for the 1968 make money selling records. tory they weren’t a part of. They stood “There are a lot of kids out walkouts was that there was a real “We’ve had such good fortune ple how easy it is to get involved,” up every morning and said the words, there that have come from broken lack of cultural history being taught with this band,” said Breckinridge. “It said Breckenridge. “You don’t have “…with liberty and justice for all,” homes,” said Breckenridge. “They in the schools of East L.A.” Olmos makes sense that we try to share that to give a ton of money, you can give knowing all too well that “for all” are not afforded the opportunities we said. “They knew very little about with people who are less fortunate.” a buck or two bucks...the little things meant everyone except them. had as kids. For us to be able to help themselves.” Whether it’s through charity add up.” They were paddled for speak- those kids have a greater chance of Results were largely over- shows, charity walks, or t-shirt and Money from Thrice’s debut ing Spanish and encouraged by guid- realizing some of the dreams they looked by the school board. Students album sales – the band uses their album, “Identity Crisis”, went to ance counselors to seek industrial and have is really cool.” were determined to take action. fame and musical talents to aid the Crittenton Services for Children clerical professions if or when they A portion of “Artist in the Even after many students were less fortunate. and Families in Fullerton, CA. The graduated high school. Ambulance” went to help Syrentha beaten in the first walkouts, their Their charity has got the atten- program helps heal the wounds For the Mexican students, the Savio Endowment (SSE), which is boycotts continued. In one scene, a tion of many in the media. It has some caused by abuse and neglect within cup grew too full, and on March 8, a program that provides financial teacher tries to keep students from putting them in the same category as families. 1968, it overflowed; high school stu- assistance to underprivileged women U2, who devote their time and money Proceeds from the band’s with breast cancer. to causes around the world. sophomore album, “Allusions of Profits from “Vheissu” will go “That’s a nice compliment,” Safety”, went to A Place Called to help 826 Valencia, a program that said Breckinridge. “We don’t have Home. APCH provides at-risk chil- helps children ages 8-18 with their the resources to be as influential as a dren and young people in inner-city writing skills, in the realm of creative band like U2, but that’s the reason why L.A. with a safe alternative to the writing, expository writing, or English we’re doing this.” gangs, drugs, and poverty that sur- as a second language. “You don’t have to be...U2 to round them. From Left: get involved and improve the quality of people’s lives,” Breckenridge said. The bands’ allusions to God is a second reason they’ve been likened to U2. The lines of each track, written by frontman Dustin Kensrue, are ooz- ing with references to the Bible, God, and faith. “Over the years, I think his faith has been a large part of his life,” Breckinridge said of Kensrue. “From record to record you’ll see his personal growth and his own spiritual growth.” Songs like, “For Miles” off their new album Vheissu, quote directly from Biblical text, using words spoken by Jesus Himself like, “…there is no greater love, than that one shed his blood for his friends.” www.atlantalatino.com An image from the HBO feature-length presentation “Walkout” In addition, the track “Like spotlights the little-known East L.A. demonstrations in 1968. Moths to Flame” closely resembles the story of Peter denying Jesus after he was arrested. dents from all over East Los Angeles leaving by likening them to lambs to But Thrice does not want to be rose from their seats and quietly walked the slaughter. defined as a Christian band. out of their classrooms in protest of the The 500 or so students from “There’s never been an agen- ill-treatment they received in school. Lincoln High grew into a mass of da,” said Breckinridge. “Bands will Police officers were told to over 20,000 students, parents, Brown get categorized as a political band or a force students back into their class- Barets, and even members of the Black Christian band, but...we’re not out to rooms. The peaceful protest quickly Panther party. convert anybody.” turned to violence. The walkouts quickly yielded “I’m not a Christian and I’m Students wielding signs were results. At the time of the walkouts, 40 in a band with three Christians... met by police officers wielding batons. students made up the Mexican popula- they’ve never tried to convert me,” said The film, “Walkout” recounts tion at UCLA. In the fall of 1968, there Breckenridge. “We’re just encouraging this widely unknown event in L.A. were over 1200. people to think.” history. “I think this film will help in- The band’s lyrics resonate with Director James Edward Olmos spire students, to help students realize Christian listeners and non-Christian told HBO Films, “This story isn’t really that their self- respect, self-esteem and listeners alike, who are searching for known by anyone except for the stu- self-worth is the single most important answers about life, who they are, why dents that participated. You’re talking aspect of living,” said Olmos. “It’s what they’re here, and where they’ll end up. about an event that really isn’t known gives you the ability to say to yourself, Thrice have also made an impact on that well even though it’s [one of] the I want to move forward. I want to be people’s lives through their financial largest high-school student demonstra- all that I can be. That’s the single most contributions and volunteer time. tions [the U.S.A. has] ever had.” important thing that can be given to a “Hopefully we can show peo- The movie highlights the events young person.”