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RAMPAGE May 28, 2013• Volume 35, No. 7 www.vvcrampage.org Most anticipated ofalbums 2013- Listby complied Compean, Daniel Entertainment Page Editor 16- Better to be despised for too anxious apprehensions, than ruined by too confident security. –Edmund Burke Powering forward into the future Degree with By Chelsea Hartshorn RamPage Reporter a guarantee

Temporary fencing has blocked Victor Valley College By Nicole Stacey students from parking in lot 11 RamPage Reporter and the northern section of lot 12. These lots are currently The Student Transfer Achieve- closed for construction of two ment Reform Act (SB 1440) will solar covered parking structures guarantee students following an that are anticipated to be fin- Associate of Arts to Transfer or ished just before the fall semes- Associate of Science to Transfer ter, according to Director of admission into the Facilities, Construction and State University system effective Contracts, Steve Garcia. in the winter/spring 2014 semes- "The work is scheduled to be ter. completed Aug. 8," said Garcia. Prior to SB 1440, transferring Construction materials and Victor Valley College students equipment are being stored in would require 60 semester units front of the Child Development or 90 quarter units in one of two Center on the north side of cam- general education patterns. pus (building 12) and by the The new transfer Associate Administration Annex Building degrees are intended to provide a on the west side (building 10). Materials for the solar covered parking structures have already been delivered and is similar educational background preventing student from parking in lots 11 and 12. for students entering a California Photo by Garrett Johnston, Managing Editor Continued in Solar on page 3 State University as a junior. “Where it becomes more cru- cial is lately the CSUs are closing their winter/spring semester,” Accreditation Live! educates campus said Counselor/Articulation Of- ficer Pamela James. By Kylie Foster Students who have fulfilled RamPage Reporter either the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC), or California State In order to inform the com- University General Education munity of Victor Valley Col- (CSU GE) pattern are still able to lege's efforts to be taken off of transfer in the fall. probation, faculty members held VVC only has three AA-T and a public forum event on May 13 three AS-T programs implement- called “Accreditation Live!” ed. These include Administration Hosted and moderated by Dr. of Justice, Communication Stud- Kaiser, a faculty member at ies, Early Childhood Education, VVC, the event allowed audi- History, Mathematics, and Soci- ence members to ask questions ology. In addition, Psychology about the accreditation efforts and English to-transfer degrees and receive direct answers from are being created. four panelists, consisting of All new AA-Ts and AS-Ts Executive Vice President Peter must be approved by the Califor- Allan, Dr. Lisa Harvey, G.H. nia Community Colleges Chan- Javaheripour, and Claude Oli- cellor's Office. The Office of ver. Instruction within the Chancel- “I hope that this event provid- GH Javaheripour Dr. Lisa Harvey, Peter Allan, and Claude Oliver answer ques- lor's office has been, and re- ed a forum and illustrated that tions during the public forum regarding the college’s progress . mains, understaffed. Photo by Todd Hadler, Sports Editor Continued in Live! on page 4 Continued in Degree on page 3

• Victor Valley College RamPage • [email protected] • issuu.com/vvcrampage • vvcrampage.org • RamPage Victor Valley College News May 28, 2013 Page 2

RAMPAGE STAFF Spring 2013

Editor-in-Chief: Kelli McGurk Managing Editor: Garrett Johnston Assistant Managing Editor: While I can say it does in a five years or this is their first and students who support Tanya Patterson way sadden me to say goodbye semester, we all continuously our newspaper’s contin- News Editor: to the RamPage, I also leave on learn new things every day. I’d ued presence on campus. Ashlee Dubach a happy note. I’m glad I can like to thank those who support The unwavering support Features Editor: walk away from this publication our publication on campus. Not we receive is what I’m Kristen Martin knowing that it is headed in a only is the newspaper good for sure has kept us here as Entertainment Editor: good direction for the future and these students who take the long as we’ve been. I’d Daniel Compean knowing that I, in part, helped journalism classes, but we strive also like to thank Sports Editors: get it there. Our student those who have Mario Gonzalez, Todd Hadler newspaper made a huge understanding Online/Soc. Media Editor: launch into the growing “It may be the end of my compassion for our Daniel Mariano online aspect of the journal- first time reporters ism industry. This will no Senior Writers: journey with the Ram- who nervously Gabriel King, Ethan McGarvy doubt bring our paper to walks into an inter- the standards of many major Page but it is only Staff Reporters: view. We owe a lot Abbie Berg, Rasheta Driver, Kylie publications. Behind the to our current advi- Foster, Chelsea Hartshorn, Abram scenes this was a long pro- another fresh start with a sor Nick Hartman, cess, as we started work on who came to us in Martinez, Brenda Ortiz, Janice Shore, Alexandra Roland, Nicole Stacey, the website long before I long road ahead.” the middle of a Jana Squire took the EiC position. Build- difficult time as ing a website from scratch , has put so much of Special to the RamPage: completely scrapping it and to provide unbiased news for the his own blood sweat and Stacey Sytulek, Photographer rebuilding it, then scrapping that campus and the community. The tears into our success. Adviser/Instructor: and building it through a new benefit of writing for our stu- Finally my staff who has Nicholas Hartman web design site can eat up a lot dent publication is that we do worked tirelessly these Administration/Faculty/Staff Mentors: of time as you can imagine. On have a bit of a cushion to fall past two semesters even if Jennifer Fowlie, Tim Isbell, Scott Mul- top of that, we had to also . We are students, and this is I was sometimes a diffi- ligan, Deanna Murphy, Robert Sewell, Karen Tomlin, Paul Williams out a newspaper every two a learning environment and our cult boss, has carried this weeks. Our staff who has stuck stories are only as good as the paper. I’d be nowhere Printing: through all this is one dedicated information we are provided. without my managing Victor Valley College Campus Print Shop team. Nothing hits you harder than editor Garrett Johnston’s Mission Statement: It is true what they say about that first email regarding an balance of power. I walk The Victor Valley College RamPage is a this line of work. You need to article that you spent countless away not sad to say good- student-run newspaper that aims to develop somewhat of a thick hours working on trying to inform and entertain the Victor Valley bye and not worried about Community. We strive to teach and skin. Our staff experienced one make it right. As we learn this the future of the RamPage, of the hardest news stories profession, we learn how to be preserve core journalistic values I am confident that this while supporting the unity of the we’ve had to report on in the as resourceful as we can, but paper will only continue campus community. RamPage at the end of last year, there are times when we may on the ladder of success. It and we all learned a lesson not not get it right. The important may be the end of my CONTACT INFORMATION only in news reporting and cov- thing is that we are always will- journey with the RamPage ering such a delicate topic such ing to admit a fault, correct it (760) 245-4271 Extension 2773 but it is only another fresh [email protected] as suicide, but lessons in hu- then learn from it. That is what start with a long road manity. I think we all grew as makes us better reporters in the ahead for the rest of the www.VVCRamPage.org journalists as well as human future. staff. beings that day. I would like to thank all those —Kelli McGurk The RamPage is a newspaper published Whether they’ve been here for faculty staff, board members Editor-in-Chief as an educational exercise and First Amendment Public Forum by students at Victor Valley College in Victorville, Calif. The views expressed by the RamPage are not necessarily those of VVC, its Board of Trustees, administration, faculty, staff, Associated Student Body Council or students. The RamPage welcomes press releases, story ideas, letters to the editor, guest articles and guest editorials. Submit pro- posed items to [email protected] VVC’s journalism program belongs to the Associated Collegiate Press, the California Newspaper Publishers Association and the Journalism Association of Community Colleges.

RamPage Victor Valley College News May 28, 2013 Page 3

Degree from page 1 something I think we should Solar from page 1 utilities and from the California have done 10 years ago,” said Solar Program. The solar struc- “They're still working with an Campbell. Deliveries to the site will come tures will overtake 80 percent of office of three,” said James. Dubbed “A Degree with a from Spring Valley Lake Park- the schools electricity. After a new AA-T or AS-T is Guarantee,” the AA-Ts and AS- way entrance. "Installing energy efficiencies submitted there is a lot of back Ts are designed to ensure transfer "The construction should not throughout campus generate and forth between VVC and the from a California community affect the students and staff as savings to the overall general Chancellor's office. Any altera- college to a CSU. the construction is scheduled to fund balance by the reduction in tions or corrections that are re- “It's not always to the school of take place during the summer utility cost. This project sup- quired can cause further delays. your choice,” said Transfer session when typically the stu- ports one of the Accrediting However, once the new AA-T or Counselor Lorena Ochoa. dent population is at its lowest," teams’ recommendations by AS-T is approved by the Chan- Students denied by their CSU said Garcia. reducing the load on the general cellor's office it is implemented of choice, with an AA-T or AS- VVC students and staff will be fund and working towards fiscal that same day. T, will find that one denial is not notified in advance of power sustainability," said Garcia. These to-transfer degrees most the end of the road. According to outages, as construction gets The campus has been under- impact students who are now Ochoa, the school issuing the close to completion in. going many energy saving en- planning to transfer. Those stu- denial may send applications The teams responsible for the deavors that have, so far, proven dents with an AA-T or AS-T will along to other CSUs that will new solar structures consist of themselves. Utility expenses receive priority over any students admit the student, ideally within VVC Facilities, Compass Ener- have fallen by close to $500,000 without that degree. The AA-Ts the same area. gy Solutions, SunWize Solar, per year with the added adjust- and AS-Ts also include a small The new program has also add- A&E inspections and Merrell ments over the past couple years boost to the student's grade point ed to the existing responsibilities Johnson Testing and Inspection. according to Garcia. average, giving those with de- of VVC counselors. This in- Each structure will require the "We have taken a very proac- grees to-transfer another ad- cludes transfer workshops still work of approximately 20 engi- tive role in letting the campus vantage over students without. being held throughout this neers. Standard precautions and know of the construction well in The nine full time members of month. safety will be maintained, but advance... The benefits of the the English department have “We just have to be informed there are no specific risk factors end product will far outweigh worked on the English AA-T that as counselors,” said Ochoa. for this construction job. any inconvenience that might be has been submitted to the Chan- The total project will cost 1.8 experienced now," said Garcia. cellor's office for review. Ac- million dollars including all cording to Associate Professor parts: solar panels, inverters, Bryce Campbell, Ph.D., the steel structure conduits, electri- Chancellor's office lacked a mod- cal wiring, lighting, lot striping, el English AA-T. In its place the electrical car charging stations, department used the History AA- and labor for installation. T as a guide. $25,000 will come in return as “I'm really excited about it, it's an incentive from a reduction in

Victor Valley College After reading the article in the sign work on the upcoming President/Superintendent Rampage, I was very surprised to Health / Science building via a Christopher O’Hearn has see the article [“VVC honored for contractual agreement with the been on a requested leave going green”] describing all the Design build contractor. of absence since Monday hard work for this award being The award itself was for lead- May 22 when VVC Vice done by the Agriculture & Natu- ership for the campus sustaina- President Peter Allan was rel Resources department. The bility program as a whole. The officially introduced as application for this award was management team of GH Ja- acting President/ Super- applied for by the Facilities con- vaheripour, Dr. O’Hearn and the intendent. struction department. The basis Board of Trustees guided , ap- O’Hearn has been under for the award was acknowledging proved and made these projects some scrutiny regarding the work that has been completed possible. Not to mention the the college’s accreditation on the one Megawatt solar sys- M&O department who work problems, and it was an- tem, the campus lighting retrofit, every day on these types of pro- nounced at a board meet- the solar covered parking at the jects. Working with the contrac- ing in Dec. that his con- Apple valley site, new District tors educating them on our sys- tract will not be renewed wide web based energy manage- tems working with them through this year. O’Hearn is not ment system, Campus Boiler implementation and eventually commenting on his specif- replacement, tying additional owning and operating these im- ic reasons for the leave of campus buildings into the central provements to the campus. absence, but the leave is Photo courtesy of vvc.edu reportedly scheduled until plant, Campus drought tolerant —Steve Garcia, Director of Fa- landscaping , etc. June 30, which when his cilities, Construction and Con- contract will expire. The facilities department is tracts implementing the savings by de- RamPage Victor Valley College Features May 28, 2013 Page 4

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Live! from page 1 This directly contradicts what through what he was saying, but Krause posted on the he didn't.” said Pinkerton. we at the college are willing to page of the Daily Press in an Krause could not be reached do what it takes. We are coming article released about the Ac- for comment and did not attend together and we are supportive creditation Live event. Accord- the scheduled Board of Trustees of one another,” said Dr. Kaiser. ing to Krause's post on May 12, meeting on Tuesday, May 14 as The goal was to address the only a day before the event, well as previous meetings. He negative attention VVC has Krause said that the naysayers was also unable to phone into been receiving. With only three of VVC are part time faculty. He the meeting. of the nine recommendations also referred to them as Krause resigned from his posi- left, the institution as a whole 'ungrateful, greedy and domestic tion on May 16 via email sent to feels very positive about the terrorists'. Lorrie Denson, president of the direction they are going. “For an actual board member Board of Trustees. His resigna- “Don’t pick on my family,” to come out and say something tion is effective June 30. VVC said Board of Trustees member like that is ludicrous,” said John faculty and the Board of Trus- John Pinkerton, referring to his Reid, president of the American tees will continue their mission personal attachment to VVC. Federation of Teachers and part- of being taken off of probation. A majority of the VVC board time VVC faculty member, who “Families do a lot of stuff members and those helping in was personally attacked in behind closed doors. But when the accreditation process are Krause's post. they step out of the house, don't very proud of what they have Pinkerton, a long-time friend ever attack somebody's family; accomplished. They believe that and fellow board member, felt we're not outsiders. We're all the negative information about stunned when he read Krause's sworn to take care of this VVC's progress is coming from post. Pinkerton's wife was also school. We've got to work to- outside of the institution. accused of supporting Krause at gether,” said Pinkerton. “It saddens me that negative Accreditation Live by other information is out there,” said board members. Krause at the Accreditation Live “I don't agree with him and I event. wish he would have thought Students pay to print Where does the money go? By Ethan McGarvey mum of ten. The problem was money being wasted.” offer as much flexibility as pos- Senior Staff Writer that someone had to make sure The pay-to-print program re- sible. We know there are some that students did not exceed the quires that students place an people who do not have a credit amount and some students actu- card or ATM card. We know The Victor Valley College initial deposit of $5.00 into their ally needed more pages than that is a problem and it is some- recently adopted a new pay-to- accounts and a set maximum what was thing we are looking into.” print program that now charges amount of allowed. The issue with printing large students for printing pages in money can With the “The amount of paper amounts of pages and dealing the Advanced Technology Cen- also be depos- pay-to-print with waste is not just a problem ter (ATC) building. The main ited for future program being wasted in the in the ATC building; the library concerns for VVC students are use. Students being im- reference desk is also having the why now and where does the ATC, was stacks a day. must set up plemented same problem. Since the library money go? their accounts for roughly There is a reduction of is open to the public, not just to “We were trying to look at it in the ATC three VVC students, the college is from every angle, every way we paper waste anywhere building, months looking into dealing with possi- could save money, and reduce which requires now, the from 30 to 60 percent.” ble solutions. The pay-to-print the expenses of waste. We don't a VISA, Mas- college has program will be evaluated in have a problem with people terCard, or already about a year, and ideas of ex- using and printing what they Debit VISA. seen results. panding the program further are need, that wasn't the issue. The “The minimum deposit “The amount of paper being already being discussed. issue was seeing a pile of paper amount was based on a couple wasted in the ATC, was stacks a “Eventually, if we expanded there every day, that is just go- things. There's a cost for credit day. There is a reduction of it, you would be able to print to ing to get shredded,” said Exec- card transactions that have to be paper waste anywhere from 30 anywhere from anywhere on the utive Dean of Technology and applied. Every time you do a to 60 percent,” said Smith. “We campus,” said Smith, “We are Information Resources, Frank deposit with a credit card you are not making money on this. actually looking into doing wire- Smith. will have a fee. That's why we We weren't doing this to try and less printing , so you Previously, the amount of said $20 maximum because you make money; we were doing could print from your laptop.” pages that students were al- will still have the same fee,” this to try to limit the amount of lowed to print was set at a maxi- said Smith, “We are trying to RamPage Victor Valley College Features May 28, 2013 Page 5 VVC continues down the campaign trail

Photos courtesy of Robert Sewell RamPage Victor Valley College Features May 28, 2013 Page 6 Finals week: study right

By Kelli McGurk ing in chunks and finding sever- Another unorthodox tip on the so it’s also important to consider Editor-in-Chief al different study areas are list is to drink cocoa. Now, your own learning style. Some somewhat “no brainers” as one don’t stock your pantry full of people are visual learners while might say, there are a couple others do best when reading As Victor Valley College stu- delicious Hershey’s chocolates things on the list that can help carefully while taking notes. It’s dents are in the final week of the and justify it by telling everyone students retain and recall infor- always important to make sure Spring semester that can only you learned from me that it will mation you have time to rest so pair mean one thing: FINALS. For help your that might your study sessions with breaks. many students, final exams are a education. not be so It will help you relax and organ- make or break. Whether you are Following tips and advice, The raw obvious. ize your thoughts. in your first semester or only form of For while also listening to your Whether you prefer to study need to pass these last few clas- cocoa now example, for short intervals every day, or ses to complete your degree or own body’s signals, can labeled as did you take a full couple days to study transfer program, this is most a “super know that definitely increase the then a couple days of break likely a stressful time. There are food,” is certain time, getting the sleep and nutri- many tips on how to make this chances for success; not full of types of ents your body needs is a must. time easier on your brain and only in college classes but nutrients music Managing your stress and body (stress can take a physical and anti- such as also in everyday life. anxiety during this time can be a toll, affecting your overall oxidants Mozart, determining factor for how well health). that can stimulates you do. Following tips and ad- Huffingtonpost.com has an affect your mood and energy. both side of the brain when lis- vice, while also listening to your interesting list of things college The added sugar in candy bars tened to during study time, and own body’s signals, can defi- students can do to ease the stress however, will overpower these can help retain information? nitely increase the chances for of finals week and ace all your affects and only lead to an ener- Researchers have found a link success; not only in college clas- tests. Some items on the list are gy crash. Huffington suggests between memory recall and ses but also in everyday life. obvious such as finding a quiet adding a spoonful of organic tempo. Music following a 60 place to study, forming study cocoa into hot milk, adding cin- bpm (beats per minute) pattern groups with peers, and the most namon, espresso and cayenne are the best to listen to while important one every professor pepper for the perfect amount of studying in order to increase the will tell you from the first day energy. likeliness of learning and re- of class: don’t wait until the last The various techniques work membering the material. minute and cram. While study- differently for different people, Heard around the lake

What advice could you give students preparing for finals?

“Start early, try to relax “Don’t stress too much as much as you can and about it. Study the night figure out which finals before, don’t try to cram it are going to be the all in and get sleep.” harder ones and pre- Kaitlin Bourassa pare for them first.” Tim Adell

“Work where you are less comfortable when you are cramming and it will help you go faster.” Bree Schnaubelt

By Janice Shore RamPage Reporter RamPage Victor Valley College Features May 28, 2013 Page 7

VVC veterans celebrate Memorial Day

--Photos courtesy of Robert Sewell RamPage Victor Valley College Features May 28, 2013 Page 8 Lions and Rams poker tournament By Daniel Mariano as the same words that left Mi- with joy and celebrate. Hand- more than happy to oblige. It’s a Online/ Editor randa’s lips left his own. He shakes and pats on the back great feeling knowing that we pushed his chips towards the were exchanged between all the can help create new classes and Victor Valley College faculty center of the table. Miranda’s players. opportunities for VVC stu- and students gathered in the eyes widened. He was surprised Before leaving, Zybura dents.” said Pearson. Spring Valley Lake Community just like everyone else to hear opened his prize envelope and The Lions Club hosts the tour- Center’s dining hall to not only Zybura match him and risk go- pulled out a hundred dollar bill. naments monthly on the first play poker, but to help the ef- ing all in. As “I like Friday at the SVL venue. This forts in raising money for VVC soon as the “When the college Foundation what particular tournament help students. Eric Pearson, VVC chips left everyone raised funds for the Campaign Performing Arts Center Coordi- Zybura’s reached out to the Lions Club is doing for Classes by donating 10% of nator and Lions Club secretary, hands, he about contributing to the Cam- to help the revenue generated from the organized the Texas Hold ‘Em immediately the col- buy in’s. Poker tournament to contribute stood up and paign for Classes, we were lege and The Spring Valley Lake Lions to the Campaign for Classes all the ex- students club has been operating for fundraiser. pressions more than happy to oblige. “ with more than 25 years. They utilize After 17 Levels and ten hours he’s been getting their events for various chari- of restless playing, the tourna- holding back finally came out as new classes, so I’d like to help ties. From the Phoenix founda- ment dwindled down from 80 to he stood up and anxiously also.” Said Zybura and handed tion that helps in supporting 9 players. awaited his cards fate. the money to Pearson. families in the time of tragedy Everyone surrounding the At just a little past 2am, An- Everyone gathered their be- with the loss of a loved one to table stopped talking at the same thony Zybura ended the tourna- longings and began to make the Aware Push Care Founda- time and focused their attention ment with a pair of Aces against their way into the parking lot, tion that will be having an event to Zybura. Both players have an Ace and a six held by James eventually making their way take place on campus at VVC in been calling each other out back Miranda. Even though Zybura home. August. The charity event will and forth for almost an hour. was ecstatic over his $1,000.00 “When the college Founda- be a car show with all proceeds And each time, they each win, everyone, including him- tion reached out to the Lions and funds raised from both the backed out against the call. Zy- self was too worn out over the Club about contributing to the event and APC going towards bura’s expression never changed duration of the day to jump up Campaign for Classes, we were Breast Cancer Awareness.

Submit your news/info at: VVCRamPage.org RamPage Victor Valley College Features May 28, 2013 Page 9 From trash to treasures By Alexandra Roland as a waffle maker from the RamPage Reporter 40's, old wine glasses, silver- ware, retro looking clothes, Spending a long night study- and much more. ing and watching a marathon of “It's interesting to see how the television show, Hoarders, is times and technology has what caught respiratory training changed,” said Pearson. student Amanda Pearson's inter- According to gar- est and pushed to start up agesalecow.com, Rummage the Clutter for a Cause Rum- sales originated possibly mage Sale. She decided to put around the 16th century when the event together to help out people would have extra car- the respiratory and nursing pro- go on ships and would auction grams. it off to people. They took The event was held on May 18 place on docks when there and was put together by the were unclaimed or damaged California Nursing Students goods. By the 1890s, rum- Association and the Respiratory mage sales became a regular Training program. Pearson was thing for charities like church- looking for an event that would es or parks. In the 1970s, they interest all people and be a win- were considered very popular win situation for everyone and held regularly by people involved. The respiratory and nursing program came together to cohost a rummage sale turning other people’s trash into treasure including their own. The proceeds to sell their unwanted goods “We pay for our own grad- \going towards the students of these programs . and make some extra cash. uation...we're trying to make Photo courtesy of Amanda Pearson It’s estimated that rummage this an annual thing. The next sales make up to 2 billion event can help the next graduat- work put into the rummage much. They were very instru- dollars annually. ing class,” said Pearson. sale, they made sure to keep it mental in the rummage sale,” Even though the respiratory The students received help fun and had a sign-making par- said Werner Zander respiratory training students and the CNSA from the Daily Press and Victor ty the night previous to the training student. didn't make 2 billion dollars, Valley College's Associated event. The group did their best All of the items for the sale they averaged out at about Student Body. The biggest part to turn a somewhat stressful filled up roughly five trucks, not 1,400 dollars between the two of getting the event recognized situation into a fun time. including Zander's and a trailer. groups and donated the leftover was advertisement and the Daily According to Pearson, the Not only did they have the rum- items to Goodwill. Pearson has Press donated slots for the turnout was successful and the mage sale, but they also partici- high hopes of making this event event. One way ASB contribut- team had a good time working pated in the Campaign for Clas- an annual occurrence to help ed to the event was by passing on it together. Her favorite mo- ses the same weekend. future students pay for their out and helping make fliers. ment of the event was getting to Although there was plenty of graduations. “ASB helped us out very look at all of the old stuff such Athlete of the issue: Tyler Spotville ral work ethic towards baseball. Chad Howard, 19 year old scouting him, but many other By Rasheta Driver “It’s a game of evolving; you Communication major and base- teams from local colleges such RamPage Reporter can get better every day. I got ball player, describes his team- as Cal State San Bernardino and better as I got older,” said Spot- mate as a hardworking and mo- ones farther away such as Kan- Tyler Spotville, a 21 year old ville. tivational member to the team. sas (Wesleyan) University, sophomore at Victor Valley In addition to his success with He deems Spotville as a motiva- home of the Coyotes as well. College, is currently being sports, Spotville also is working tional figure to himself and the Spotville maintains if he were scouted by different profession- and going to school full time. team. scouted by any college, he al and college teams. According Assistant Coach Irvin Bounds One of Spotville’s inspirations would love for it to be Arizona to Spotville and his coaches he explains how he was not sur- comes from his favorite team, State University because of its’ is currently being scouted by the prised that Spotville was being the Dodgers. He’s connection to famed baseball Seattle Mariners and the Colora- scouted as he was disciplined loved them since he was a child player Barry Bonds. Spotville do Rockies. Spotville has the and had four of the five pro- when his grandfather gave him has yet to decide on what he highest batting average on the spects (power, hitting/hitting his first major league game tick- will do or what team he will Rams baseball team and the ability, defense, and speed). He ets to a Dodger’s game. His play for if he plays at all, which coaches say he is currently the describes Spotville as always biggest motivation is his fiancée may be good news for VVC only one being scouted. having a strong work ethic Melody Sapp, a 22-year-old because his coaches agree they Spotville grew up in Rialto which positively influenced the former VVC volleyball player, wish they could have more time and started playing baseball team. and his 10-month-old daughter. with him. when he was four. He attributes “He came out with a different He also has another child on the “We wish him the best and the encouragement his mother mentality; he was set on going way, who he is hoping will a expect big things from him. You gave to him as to why he pur- to the next level. He was here on boy. can never replace a Tyler Spot- sued it. In the beginning, Spot- a mission and encouraged others Spotville says he not only has ville but we can try,” said head ville always said he had a natu- to follow,” said Coach Bounds. the Rockies and the Mariners Coach Jesus Beltran. RamPage Victor Valley College May 28, 2013 Page 10 What sailor life taught this desert rat

By Samantha McGurk After that, I knew I had to Special to the RamPage go back to school. My grand- ma always wanted me to and The work hours are awful; the blamed herself for my drop- labor is sometimes unbearable ping out. With the financial and your superiors often times situation even worse than scream insults at you two inches before after paying for funeral away from your face. This is not and burial expenses, I just did the ideal job I had always envi- not know how I was going to sioned for my life to say the be able to do that. least. But this is the path I took I was working at The Home and if I had to do it all over Depot feeling like my life was again, I wouldn’t change a thing. going nowhere fast. I had a When I graduated from Hes- desire to just leave my old life peria High School in 2006, I was behind and see the world, not overjoyed to have been accepted only for myself but for my to Vanguard University, my col- grandmother who never got lege first choice. I spent 2 won- that chance. derful, exciting years there hav- Joining the ing the time of my life as a col- Navy had been an option I lege freshman. considered after high school. Attending a private university It came back to my mind after however was taking its toll on learning more about the Post the financial stability of my fam- 9/11 GI Bill. I wanted to expe- ily. I could not continue my edu- rience the world and finish my cation knowing that it was drag- education-this was the perfect ging my parents into debt. My way to do both. part time job did little to help. Now that my 4 years of ac- Around this time, my grand- tive obligation is nearing it’s mother became severely ill. She end next year, I am looking was living by herself in her forward to my future in pursu- home, so I left my dorm and my ing a career in photo journal- educational path to live with and ism. Victor Valley College is take care of her. The following my first option, obviously months were the hardest I’ve being a native of the High ever endured as I watched her Desert. I feel proud to have slowly wither and pass away in served my time for a country During her time serving in the U.S. Navy, Samantha McGurk worked on SH-60 B April 2008. that will give me an education Seahawk Anti-Submarine Helicopter Squadron light four nine in return. Photo courtesy of Samantha McGurk, Special to the RamPage

Traveling to three days without eating and not several coun- having clean drinking water. I tries during my now realize that being poor in years of ser- America is very different than vice, and see- poor in a third world country. ing what true What I have learned from my poverty looks time in the U.S. Navy is how to like has made be a better person, and how I can me humble and truly help individuals less fortu- grateful for nate than myself. I am looking what I do have. forward to getting my education My family’s so I can do just that. Our Navy’s financial woes core values: Honor, Courage, are nothing and Commitment: will forever compared to endure in me as I venture back the slums of into my civilian lifestyle. India or the Philippines where people live hoping that the muddy tarps and tin roofs would withstand an- other day, or going two or Flight quarter operations takes place aboard USS Gridley DDG 101 in the southwest Pacific ocean. Photo courtesy of Samantha McGurk, Special to the RamPage RamPage Victor Valley College Entertainment May 28, 2013 Page 11 VVC celebrates student transfers

By Brenda Ortiz step in his education. RamPage Reporter “The feeling of transferring can be described with an imagi- In honor of the transferring nary journey pathway to the alumni of Victor Valley Col- sunlight called success. Along lege, the Transfer Center held the way, the recognition feeling the fourth annual Transfer cele- is those friends that are along- bration on May 23. side the path cheering and “The purpose is to recognize launching you onto the next students for their accomplish- platform of accomplishments. ment of transferring to a four Thus, creating an effect not like year university,” said VVC any other,” said Lara. Transfer Center counselor Lore- Overall, the event offered na Ochoa. plenty of inspiring moments to Students spent the first half- the students, as well as their hour of the event conversing friends and family. Once the and gathering around with re- ceremony ended students were freshments as they waited for given the opportunity to speak the ceremony to begin. The cer- with representatives from Cal emony commenced with State and UC colleges to discuss speeches from Lorena Ochoa upcoming steps in the transfer Transferring students sign up to participate in the celebration. process. and Peter Allan, both providing Photo by Brenda Ortiz, RamPage Reporter words of encouragement. “Be Prepared and achieve “Be persistent because it gets California Los Angeles, has had a language barrier but also un- good grades. Visit universities so easy to give up. Your educa- to deal with plenty of struggles derstanding they way colleges and utilize the schools sources, tion is the most valuable thing with his family. He came to operate. likes the counselors. It will you can have because no one VVC in 2011, right out of high Once the speeches reached make your experience a lot can take it away from you,” said school and joined ASB. the end, awards were then given smoother,” said Ochoa. Allan to all the students. Intending to achieve a degree in recognition of the students’ For those who are interested Inspiring stories were also in Accounting, Muchu Lan has status as transferring to their or would like more information shared by two of VVC’s alumni, had to struggle with adapting to schools of choice. regarding transfering, the Trans- both of which have overcome a new environment. She came to Michael Lara, a transfer who fer Center is located at the personal obstacles and intend to the U.S. in 2006, and spent her is working towards an Interna- Counseling and Administration move forward in their journey to first three years attending tional Studies major with an Bldg. 55. Lorena Ochoa may be success. Brian Feliciano, who is Barstow College, during which emphasis in Business is more contacted at (760)245-4271 ext. transferring to University of time she struggled not only with than happy to be taking the next 2713. Veterans’ flapjacks fundraiser

By Tanya Patterson of soapy water. stated at VVC in 2011, Assistant Managing Editor Tickets for the when the school re-opened carwash pre-sold its Veteran’s window. Since for $10 per car. then, it has been an integral The Victor Valley College Those who part of the process for in- Veteran’s Club held a fundrais- bought a pre-sale coming veterans looking to ing carwash and pancake break- ticket received a receive an education. The fast on May 18, with the pro- car wash and an window expedites the pro- ceeds going towards scholar- all-you-can-eat cess of admission and as- ships for VVC students who pancake break- sists students in finding have served in the military. fast. services that they qualify Signs at the fund-raiser read Washes were while attending the college. “Fill Our Boots for Veterans” not only available “The need was there. Es- and “Donate for our Books.” to people who pecially now, with the vets “[The Veteran’s Club] has bought a pre-sale, coming back from Iraq and made a big difference… I would however. Passers- Afghanistan, they’re com- be lost in the sauce without by were also VVC’s veterans club collected money going towards scholarships ing back with PTSD and them,” said Jessica Lipe, a VVC offered a scrub for student veterans offering a car wash along with pancakes. they can’t stand in line. student and member of the Vet- down. Many Photo by Tanya Patterson, Assistant Managing Editor Having that window open eran’s Club. “They’ve helped people chose to definitely helps them out, with guidance, socializing and donate more than the minimum rect results of the things we’re you know. It makes them feel integrating back into the civilian and others simply stopped by to doing,” said President of the like the college is more veteran lifestyle.” drop a few dollars into the pair Veteran’s club Dave friendly,” said Wesley James, Members of the club set up of combat boots, which sat upon McConnell. “Today, we’re al- one of the founding members of outside of Johnny D’s Restau- the table to collect donations. ready raised enough for two rant on Bear Valley Rd. with “Right now, our biggest focus $250 scholarships.” Continued in Veterans on page 13 wash rags, towels and buckets is showing the students the di- Veteran’s Services were rein- RamPage Victor Valley College Entertainment May 28, 2013 Page 12 Animals on the mic: Vocal Zoo Ruins of By Daniel Compean spired music. Witticisms spun and lyrical Time rocks Entertainment Editor A two-man, genre-blending irony abound, Nasty and A project between guitarist Jack Dash have a sense of humor A dimly lit Blue Moon neon Paine (Jack Nasty) and vocalist about them that’s apparent in Riverside sign gives some clarity to the Austin Swift (A Dash), Vocal their mannerisms and overt in densely packed bar. Senses are Zoo know how to operate the their music. With a fun, un- By Gabriel King assaulted and thrown to caution stage as evident in their ability complicated style, their music Senior Staff Writer from the otherwise mellow May to quickly recover from an im- brings a light-hearted energy. night as the crowd stands shoul- promptu dance performance Not all too dissimilar from Local band Ruins of Time der to shoulder and liquor, from a less than sober fan. With their High Desert roots, their (ROT) has been making moves amongst other indescribable an eye for performing, these two music reflects a mixture of towards more exposure and fans. smells, waft through the air. musicians represent well on- nearly every music scene They are moving so fast that There’s a personable, almost stage creating an almost symbi- available in Southern Califor- they are going to Battle for intimate quality to the tiny stage otic bond with their audience. nia akin to Sublime or The 2013. And if they as patrons sing in Referring to themselves as Dirty Heads. win they will get a spot for the unison to bands per- 2013 Warped Tour concert se- forming covers of ries. The success of this High your usual variety Desert band did not happen over- such as “Swing Life night. Away” by Rise Eddie Mendez, lead vocalist Against. Audience and , will be attending members, all forming Victor Valley College in the fall circular groups, diz- of 2013. He was one of the zily ramble to each founders and now the last re- other without so maining member from the origi- much as letting a nal line-up. word in edgewise. “I’ve seen this band go Some kid standing through at least eight band mem- too close for comfort bers and now we finally have a licks his lips while he good group of guys that want to tells his friend he’s be here. We are all friends so it smarter on pot. It’s a makes it fun to play with each High Desert crowd; other,” said Mendez. you can’t argue that. Ruins of Time has been play- There’s always a ing shows for over seven years certain camaraderie and started from a small garage amongst High Desert band playing in friend’s and locals. Whether family’s backyards and garages. that’s from an almost They are now playing large scale Stockholm Syndrome venues and recording their first -esque relationship full studio . They have with the High Desert played everywhere in backyards or bonding over their in Barstow, medium venues like obligatory, mutual the Victor Valley Fairgrounds to love of the huge venues like the world fa- band Sublime, one Vocal Zoo performs at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Sports Bar mous Chain Reaction in Ana- can’t be too sure. Photo by Daniel Compean, Entertainment Editor heim. Regardless, youth Now they will be playing in culture finds a way to connect “,” Vocal Zoo carry “My mom raised me on the Battle for Warped Tour 2013. that’s unlike any other town. On a heavy blend of hip-hop sensi- Beatles and Queen so we like They will be competing for a this particular night, the connec- bilities with a touch of punk to mix everything in there. I spot to travel around the country tion has never felt stronger as rock, reggae, folk, and an influ- love the , I love hip-hop, with bands such as August Burns local band Vocal Zoo opens ence of High Desert culture that I love punk, so I think we do a Red, , The Black their set at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s pervades through their writing. good job mixing all that in,” Dahlia Murder, Best Day Ever Sports Bar in Hesperia. Taking influences from under- said Nasty. and . “You need to have a beer in ground and old school hip-hop, With plans to play out in “We have a really great chance your hand before we play this Vocal Zoo has a sound that’s Venice for the 2013 summer, of getting to Warped Tour and next song,” the lead singer pro- distinctly identifiable for High Vocal Zoo is beginning prepa- were confident in our stage pres- claims as the whole crowd rais- Desert natives and shows as rations to record their first ence and performance,” said Joe es their mugs in unison; a telling audience members brighten up demo which they plan to hand Ontiveros, guitarist for Ruins of phrase that indefinitely sets the at the almost lyrical inside-jokes out in future shows. Time and student here at VVC tone for the night. made about the desert. “We try to get our point studying to be an electrician. The once disinterested crowd “We both grew up in the High across in the easiest way to ROT showed up with their absorbed in their own conversa- Desert. We’ve both been at the where everyone can connect to merchandise booth and set-up tion seems overtaken as their bottom of the bottom. We’re our music,” said A Dash. crew. The band sold the most attention is now centered on just trying to make something “That’s our main goal.” tickets out of all 8 acts so they Vocal Zoo performing their out of this desert,” said guitarist For more on Vocal Zoo, unique brand of hip-hop in- Jack Nasty. visit: facebook.com/VocalZoo. Continued in Ruins on page 9 RamPage Victor Valley College Entertainment May 28, 2013 Page 13

Ruins from page 8 looked at each other, got to pick their own time slot. their name still had not They chose the third slot been called; they were which started at 9:50. ROT nervous with anticipa- got a huge crowd reaction and tion. Ruins of Time interaction. The audience was placed first and will be jumping around and head moving in to the semi- banging. finals to Warped Tour. The surprising part of the The band exploded show was Ruins of Time was with excitement and the only metal band at the confidence. battle. During one of the "I'm glad to have songs ROT was playing, bass- won the battle I'm ist Danny Thomson's pick excited and ready to broke into two pieces and compete in the next dropped to the ground. round," said Mendez "I dropped my pick while about winning first we were playing. It broke in prize at the Battle for two but I was ready for it be- Warped Tour. cause at practice I play with Ruins of Time will my fingers just in case that perform in the Battle (From left to right) Joe Ontiveros, Danny Thomson, Eddie Mendez, Alex Salazar for Warped Tour semi- would happen at a show. To- Photo courtesy of Jethro Inong night it did," said Thomson. finals on June 8. The Ontiveros was nervous about while he was taking down his night’s battle. There would be second round is going the show. He just wanted every- equipment. three bands moving on to the to be held in Upland, Califor- thing to be perfect. The winner was not an- next round. Third place was nia at the Buffalo Inn. ROT is "I know I f*cked up a little but nounced until 1:15. Tensions the Covina based band "The already selling tickets to the I know my stage performance mounted before the announce- Grey", second place was given next battle for $8 a ticket. was amazing," said Ontiveros ment of the winners. An ex- to Riverside native rapper Tickets can be bought on: ception was made for the “Young Fyha”. As the band Facebook.com/ruinsoftime1. Fast 6 changing lanes and shifting gears Veterans from page 11 By Mario Gonzalez clique of international profes- Michelle Rodriguez’s Letty Co-Sports Editor sional criminals as they join and Gina Carano’s Riley the VVC Veteran’s Club. together with Hobbs in taking (member of Hobbs team). Many veteran students also down Shaw. Carano’s, a former MMA participate in the school’s Ex- Director and writ- fighter, really shows off her tended Opportunities Programs er Chris Morgan, believe it or skills from inside of the octa- and Services (EOPS) and Disa- If you thought it couldn’t get not, have upped the ante and gon against Rodriguez who is bled Students Programs and any better than a 1965 Chevro- intensity level in their latest able to keep up with her every Services (DSPS). let Corvette Grand Sport installment to the “Fast and step of the way. These two “EPOS, DSPS and the Veter- jumping out of a train or two Furious” franchise. Cheesy will leave you cringing in your an’s services provide a sort of 2010 Dodge Charger SRT’s lines, ground and pound seats as they throw down and symbiotic relationship,” said dragging a 7x12, 490 pound fighting, buildings collapsing, put their bodies on the line. James. “They go hand in hand.” vault through the streets of hot rides, beautiful woman and Lin and Morgan have taken In addition to the scholarship Rio, in “,” well think a tank nearly destroying every- the driver seat of this high- fundraiser, the Veteran’s Club again. thing in its path definitely octane saga that dates back to has been working with the VVC After their most recent heist, leads to a good time. 2001. They shift the series into Foundation to set up the Veter- skimming $100 million from a “Fast and Furious 6” ignites sixth gear and speed into the an’s Education and Transition Brazilian drug lord in “Fast with engines roaring and latest adrenaline-injected in- Services (VETS), a one- stop assistance center for Veterans Five,” (Vin wheels spinning as high- stallment with twist and action Diesel) and Brian O’Connor who are returning to college. performance cars race and -packed scenes that will leave This center would include ad- (Paul Walker) along with the chase through the streets of you at the edge of your seat. rest of their crew of retired missions and counseling ser- . Fast and Furious, “Fast and Furious 6” speeds vices, a computer lab, a book- professional criminals now being known for its dangerous by its competition and previ- sharing program and provide live a life of peace, freedom driving and thrilling action- ous installments without look- student vets with a place to net- and extravagance. All of that packed scenes, has seemed to ing back in its rearview mirror. work in an environment tailored changes, however, when feder- increase the thrills and chills Lin serves justice in “Fast 6” specifically for them. al agent Luke Hobbs (Dwayne on just about both of those and with an ending to the The Veteran’s Club meets “The Rock” Johnson) tracks with its glorious stunt work movie leaving an uproar of every first and third Thurs. at down and convinces them to and special effect explosions cheers from the viewing audi- 12:30 p.m. in the SAC. Student help him take down a former at just about every corner of ence, it is only a wonder what vets, friends, family and other Special Ops soldier gone the way. he will bring to the screen supporters are all welcomed to rouge, Owen Shaw (Luke Ev- What really stands out the next. attend. For more information, ans). most in “Fast 6” is the incredi- contact the Veteran’s Club at Accepting Hobbs request, ble fight scenes, including one [email protected]. Dom reunites his former that is shared between RamPage Victor Valley College May 28, 2013 Page 14 The Dillinger Escape Plan: killing the competition

By Todd Hadler first two singles and rightly be filler songs with both of them not really meaning anything or Co-Sports Editor so as these two songs repre- sent the band’s sound the having anything special, even best. There are parts of with the latter of those two these songs, and the whole songs being five minutes long. album for that matter, that The album does end on a high The definition of frenetic is really makes your head spin note with “The Threat Posed by fast and energetic in a rather as guitarist Ben Weinman Nuclear Weapons.” When it wild and uncontrolled way. That incites chaotic, yet intricate, comes to lyrics, The Dillinger definition applies to The Dil- riffs and drummer Billy Escape Plan are not exactly top linger Escape Plan’s new album, Rymer gives one of the of the crop. “,” but most complex drumming 2013 is proving to be a good not fully. The first part of the performances of the year as year for The Dillinger Escape definition is relevant to the al- the time signatures are al- Plan. “One of Us Is the Killer,” bum, but The Dillinger Escape most impossible to keep up debuted at number 25 on the Plan are not wild and uncon- with. chart, with first- trolled. They know exactly what The album’s title track Photo courtesy of week sales at 14,824, which they are doing and they are do- slows it down and the band doubles the sales from their last ing it well. shows their progressive side. which stand out in this album, “.” “One of Us Is the Killer,” is This particular song reminds of album. Puciato’s screams com- This is an absolute must have the band’s fifth full length al- Mastodon, it shows a proggy pliments the instrumentation album for 2013. There are parts bum and first on the band’s new side but also midway in the perfectly, keeping the same of this album that could have , Sumerian Records, song, the band goes into a theme of absolute chaos. been better, but this is one of after fulfilling their contractual straight sludge-y . This track There is barely any faults with Dillinger Escape Plan’s best obligations with French record also shows the improvement of this album. There is kind of a . If one wants to step label . The album lead singer ’s sing- drop-off towards the end of the outside the box from the usual starts off a lot like their debut ing. The standout point for his album. After the instrumental, metal and hardcore, then this is album, “,” in singing is in “Nothing’s Funny,” “Ch 375 268 277 ARS,” the the band and album for you. that the first two songs are an all where during the chorus he songs after does not quite live -out assault on the seems to stretch his singing to up to the rest of the album. senses. “Prancer,” and “When I the highest limits, almost to a “Magic That I Held You Prison- Lost My Bet,” are the band’s . However, it is not his er,” and “Crossburner,” seem to The world truly is a beautiful place

By Daniel Compean ates a unique and dense textured The slow simmer of the sound with multi-layered and opening track, “blank #9,” Entertainment Editor heavily effected guitars as well is easy to drown in the as liberal use of , immersion. The lumbering cellos, and . guitars and sparse drums TWIABP continues this create a somber explorato- The 90s were kind of a bum- ‘twinkly’ punk sound with their ry intro that by the second mer. As if bleak Seattle rain- 2013 debut full-length album track, “Heartbeat in the storms and excessive flannel “Whenever, If Ever” which Brain,” bursts into life weren’t depressing enough, the quickly became the best-selling with melodic keyboard 90s desired nothing more than album on Bandcamp, an online accompaniments and lay- to distance itself from the happy music store that mainly caters to ered guitars sprinkled with -go-lucky optimism of 80s pop- independent artists. violins. By the third track, ular music by leaning towards Combining the atmospheric “Fightboat,” the album cynical disinterest. The 2010s tendencies of post-rock, in the conjures pop-punk ele- style of Explosions in the Sky, ments without compromis- thus far seem eager to emulate Photo courtesy of Topshelf Records this, with more bands going for with the melodic despondence ing the band’s post-rock a that depressed apathy so synon- of 90s bands like Mineral, slant and musical talent. ymous with 90s alternative mu- “Whenever, If Ever” boasts an The seven-minute closing good time being miserably de- sic. impressive and emotional sound track, “Getting Sodas,” culmi- pressed. The World is a Beautiful Place unlike any current musical act. nates to a dramatic and emo- There's a fundamental irony in & I am No Longer Afraid to Die Lyrically simplistic and tional climax. With twinkly how a band titled The World is a (TWIABP) is a small indie band straightforward in theme, the guitars abound and a steadily Beautiful Place & I am No Longer hailing from Connecticut with a album largely speaks of univer- growing cadence, the song cre- Afraid to Die is such a throwback love for the 90s almost equal to sal experiences: about home, ates a beautiful buildup that to the sardonic 90s, with lyrics their love of absurdly long suburbia, loss and nostalgia. does not fail to impress. obsessing over arrested develop- names. Despite releasing only a Atmospheric and breathy, emo- For all their morose and angst, ment and past mistakes. The heav- handful of EPs over the last tionally raw and confessional, there’s never a sense that ily layered guitars and vocals several years, TWIABP has the sheer tone of “Whenever, If TWIABP is ever taking them- along with ethereal melodies cre- quickly become a seminal band Ever” encapsulates the feeling selves too seriously. With sar- ate a lush sound that gives a mod- in the underground ‘twinkly’ of remorseful longing that feels castically titled tracks and al- ern twist to classic 90s alternative. punk music scene and it’s abun- like a 30-minute introspective most self-deprecating sense of With blistering shimmer and plen- dantly clear why. The band cre- reflection in an isolation tank. humor, they seem to be having ty of catharsis, “Whenever, If Ev- er” is truly a rich experience. RamPage Victor Valley College May 28, 2013 Page 15 Vampire Weekend brings life to the city By Daniel Compean fortlessly. Hunt,” opens with lightly played Entertainment Editor There's a warm chords as it gives way to lightness to these Koenig’s soft vocals about a songs. More dynam- couple on a cross-country road ic and more sponta- trip. His details are sparse and neous, “Modern ambiguous, yet perfectly inter- You have to understand the Vampires of the woven within the track’s quiet holistic nature of all things: City” has a sound beauty. In some sense, this track everything is connected. At least that's distinctly more is the pinnacle of Vampire that’s what band intimate and closer Weekend’s talent being shown Vampire Weekend would have to the ear than past best. you believe, who seem to take efforts. The ambiguity of the lyrics is that turn of phrase pretty seri- While still present well-suited for the enigmatic ously. throughout the al- charm within “Modern Vam- Incorporating a wide range of bum, the African pires of the City.” Koenig has influences from – quite literally world beats are managed to create a dichotomy – all over the world, Vampire largely replaced in between the melody and lyrics Weekend can be difficult to favor of an almost that work effectively in creating describe in few words. Lead Photo courtesy of XL Recordings Americana sensibil- an experience that is simultane- vocalist and guitarist Ezra ity that would make The ously jarring and reassuring. For Koenig has his obvious punk some serious facelifts to their Boss slowly nod in approval. lyrics that are so melancholic, rock influences, but with a dash music. Vampire Weekend’s risk Filled with heavenly choirs, the the album has an oddly gleeful of traditional African music, of sacrificing the elements of opener, “Obvious Bicycle,” is tone with breezy, delicate chord synthpop, , twee pop their claim to fame has more anchored by slow walking piano progressions and soft, crooning and general world music thrown than paid off in their third studio chords lending itself to a dream- vocals. An artist that can make in like an acid-induced Simon & album, and best effort yet, like quality. When the track’s one feel happy and content with Garfunkel fever dream. “Modern Vampires of the City.” simple structure opens into the songs so negative and deprived Vampire Weekend’s previous This is a grown-up Vampire angelic chorus, the effect is is something to be lauded. albums – “Vampire Weekend” Weekend. Gone are the jangly hymnlike and hypnotizing. If everything truly is connect- and “Contra” – were met with hooks of “A-Punk” or the en- “Step” continues this approach ed, then “Modern Vampires of critical claim in 2008 and 2010 tirety of the poppier-Animal- with the inclusion of a spinning the City” makes a strong case. respectively, with their sopho- Collective-cover-band days of harpsichord showing their After years of playing around more release, “Contra,” receiv- “Contra” for that matter. Vam- Grover Washington and Bread with any, and every, genre with- ing a Grammy nomination for pire Weekend succeeds in trans- inspirations. It’s representative in reach, Vampire Weekend is Best Alternative Music Album. cending their first two records of what is Vampire Weekend’s now their own source of influ- In the wake of their newfound for a more refined and lighter most delicately crafted album ence for future musicians. success with a largely college album with vocals and music yet. aged fanbase, the band has made that seem to flow together ef- The sixth track, “Hannah is back with a brand new set of memories

By Abram Martinez Both Bangalter and Homem- clap inviting party anthem. RamPage Reporter Christo, the duo that is Daft The first and hit-single off of Punk are worldwide stars but it RAM is the is the characters that comprise and legendary producer Nile Daft Punk that are famous, not Rodgers co-written and chart them as men. They are known topping track, “Get Lucky.” It is The fourth album from Daft for their signature metal helmets a catchy tune that is reminiscent Punk, “Random Access Memo- worn to create a fictional robotic of any number of Michael Jack- ries” (RAM), is a near perfect persona and have not been pic- son 80’s era tunes that pro- album that is topping the UK tured out of helmet since 1995. claims “We’re up all night to charts and re-establishing them They choose to remain anony- get lucky.” as the leaders of Electronic mous to the public and let their The main differences be- Dance Music (EDM). robot personas and music speak tween RAM and other Daft There are very few household for themselves. Punk releases is that this album names in EDM. Some might The opening track to RAM is is not of the current dance rec- Photo courtesy of name or Deadmau5 if “,” ord trend – it is what some from ’ frontman they were asked who their fa- which seems to be more than a would describe as which could vorite EDM artist, but the world cliché title. It is an open-call to or ‘commercial’ friendly. Make be described as possibly the knows who Daft Punk is. They musicians to start putting their no mistake, you can and will most heart-felt track of the al- bridged the gap between the heart back into music. “Let the dance to this album, but it is not bum. once niche genre of dance music music of your life, give life back laced with heavy kick beats, RAM pays homage to the a long time ago. The world to music.” It borrows several soul samples, and lyrics that sound of the late 70’s and knows who Daft Punk is, yet in rock influences with a guitar make them radio friendly. reality, they know next to noth- synthesized riff and a rolling Another standout track is the Continued in Daft Punk on ing about or drum beat during its hook that song “” featuring page 16 Guy-Man de Homem-Christo. eventually breaks down into a synthesized harmonic vocals RamPage Victor Valley College Entertainment May 28, 2013 Page 16 1 What to look forward to: In the wake of the critical acclaim and commercial success that was “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” Kanye West has some upcoming albums of 2013 hype to live up to. Slated for release on June 18, “” has the potential to exceed its predecessor. Set to feature artists such as Daft Punk, Skrillex, Chief Keef, List compiled by Daniel Compean, Entertainment Editor , , and more, “Yeezus” has been described as “dark” and “very raw” showing a turn towards a stylistic shift. Details about the album are still vague, but two songs, “New 1 2 Slaves” and “Black Skinhead,” were performed on . Loud and relentless, “Black Skinhead” certainly shows a more aggressive Kanye with shouting vocals and destructive pro- duction elements. Whether the rapper can exceed expec- tations remains to be seen, but so far, “Yeezus” has shown to be a more than promising release for 2013.

2 Justin Timberlake Fresh off the success of “The 20/20 Experience,” Justin Timber- lake announced his plans to release a follow-up “The 20/20 Expe- rience (2 of 2)” out Sept 30. The first installment of “The 20/20 Experience” marked a sig- nificant milestone for Timberlake. Selling a staggering 968,000 copies its first week, “The 20/20 Experience” not only marked a 3 4 commercial success for Timberlake but a musical success as well. The album showcased a seamless blend of pop and R&B that proved as testament to Timberlake’s musical chops. “The 20/20 Experience (2 of 2)” will be an interesting follow-up to the al- ready established acclaim of the first installment that will be more than an anticipated release for 2013. 3 The Weeknd is a man of few words, so it only seems fitting that little has been said of his debut LP “Kissland.” A Toronto-based 5 6 R&B singer, this will be the first full-length album released by The Weeknd who thus far has released three EPs. Numbing and lyrically toxic, as evident in the release of the title track “Kissland,” The Weeknd has a certain engaging mystique to his music. With ambivalence and beautifully cunning nihilism, The Weeknd is sure to bring the same level of craft present in his EPs to a full-length. 7 8 4 Danny Brown Danny Brown basks in self-satisfaction in his transformation from no-name to Detroit's top rapper since . “Old” is the upcoming third studio album, set for release some time in August, following Brown’s experimental 2011 concept release, “XXX.” The new LP is expected to feature A$AP Rocky, Schoolboy Q, Charlie XCX, and indie synth-pop band Purity Ring; the latter of which is expected to contribute beats. In an interview with Fuse, Brown explained that although “Old” won’t be as consistently humorous as “XXX,” fans will still be pleasantly surprised by the outcome. 9 10 5 Cloud Nothings With the indie rock band's 2012 LP still fresh in memory, it’s a bit surprising to see them release a new album so soon. However, frontman Dylan Baldi announced that he has al- ready written much of the follow-up LP “Body Music” for a re- lease this fall. Their 2012 album, “,” was a sonic throwback to 90s post-hardcore and . With a keen eye for melodic hooks and emotionally charged lyrics, Baldi has expressed a de- Photos courtesy of last.fm sire to move past this style. Expect “Body Music” to be "less me- lodic" and more “noisier and straightforward” reflecting an influ- ence of early punk. RamPage Victor Valley College Entertainment May 28, 2013 Page 17 6 MGMT 11 Three years ago, MGMT rattled fans with the release of their Drake has easily become a household name. The Young Money sophomore album “Congratulations” which dropped any reprise of Cash Money artist is one of the most recognizable celebrities to their breakthrough hit “Kids” for neo-psychedelic leans. With their date. Since his Degrassi days were over, his music career took off upcoming June self-titled release, lead vocalist and guitarist An- and now he is one of the biggest mainstream artist. His new album drew VanWyngarden has said that the band has decided to stick “Nothing was the Same” will be his third studio release. And with with that direction with the album being described as sounding his song “Started from the Bottom”, it is already playing on every close to “Congratulations.” radio station and shows that Drizzy will stay in the mainstream With a heavy R.E.M. influence along with Aphex Twin and light for another year. house influences, “MGMT” is looking to turn into an album that won’t be easily accessible for fans “Kids.” However, it’ll prove to be an interesting release from these eclectic, synth-heavy indie rockers. 12 The Dismemberment Plan After reuniting to tour two years ago and performing eight new songs, the renowned Washington, D.C. post-punk revivalists con- 7 Sweatshirt firmed the expected: the band was in the process of recording a For Odd Future fans, it has been three long years since Earl new album. Though no official release date has been set, the re- Sweatshirt released his critically acclaimed album, “Earl.” Earl cording was nearly complete at the end of 2012 so it won’t be long spent more than a year in Samoa after his mother sent him to Coral to hear the new LP. Reef Academy, a troubled youth center. Earl finally came back to the U.S., and immediately got right back to it, doing guest vocals 13 for Odd Future, , and Tyler the Creator. This year Earl J. Cole plans to release his second full-length, “Doris.” Featuring star- Scheduled for release on June 18, J. Cole’s sophomore album studded guest vocalists that include Frank Ocean, Tyler the Crea- “Born Sinner” should remain an interesting effort. Cole has re- tor, Mac Miller, RZA, and Pharrell, Earl is one of the best up and ferred to the album as better than his debut citing the freedom he coming rappers out there. This album has a strong chance to blow has from controlling the production process. up similar to Frank Ocean’s, “.” The first promotional single, “Miss America,” illustrates what Cole says is a step away from pop-accessibility in favor of social- commentary. An unorthodox single, it certainly is not a song di- 8 rected towards radio and sets the tone for what is sure to be Cole’s The Black Keys are back in the studio again recording their next most ambitious release yet. upcoming LP following the success of their 2011 blues-inspired, glam fest “El Camino.” 14 In an interview with MTV, guitarist Dan Aeurbach confirmed Eminem that The Black Keys will once again be working with Danger From drug relapses to number one hit albums, Eminem has Mouse, who produced and co-wrote the band’s last record “El grown up and his last album “Recovery” proves that he is getting Camino.” away from his Slim Shady roots. His struggles and addictions gave Very few details have been released thus far. However, one can him a new lease on life; it has affected his musical life as well as assume that it will maintain The Black Keys’ recognizable blues his personal life. It seems like his new album will have more of the tinge. Whether it will continue the more elements of “El same maturity that “Recovery” had. His abilities are still Camino” remains to be seen. Regardless, The Black Keys are sure as cerebral as when he first came into the hip-hop game. Age is to be a driving force in the modern music scene making their up- only a number and at 40, Eminem can show the younger genera- coming album an easily anticipated release for 2013. tion of rappers this is not a young man’s game anymore. 9 Franz Ferdinand 15 Against Me! In the works for the last three years, “Right Thoughts, Right With an upcoming album titled “Transgender Dysphoria Blues,” Words, Right Action” will be indie rockers Franz Ferdinand’s if you didn’t already know about lead singer Tom Gabel’s recent fourth studio album who have been overdue for a release since sexual reassignment operation you would now. The Florida based 2009. band’s sixth studio release is said to be a The band has already previewed many of their tracks at live with gender dysphoria as its theme. performances. Fairly tight-lipped about the album, frontman Alex Drummer Jay Weinberg and bassist Andrew Seward announced Kapranos has described the album as directionally “forward” and their departure from the band, however production is still pushing will maintain the vitality and fun of Franz Ferdinand’s debut self- forward. Expect to see a release some time late 2013. titled. With a precise aesthetic sight to marry artistic sensibilities with pop hooks, Franz Ferdinand’s upcoming release is sure to be an album to look out for. Honorable Mentions 10 — … Like Clockwork — Love in the Future The Montreal indie-pop band’s fourth upcoming studio album Boards of Canada — Tomorrow’s Harvest has some high expectations to fill; their 2004 debut album Lady Gaga — ARTPOP “Funeral” was met with critical acclaim and their 2010 release of Montreal — Lousy with Syvlianbriar “” won a Grammy for Album of the Year. The band has already performed some of their new tracks at a Sigur Rós—Kveikur secret show in Montreal late 2012, as well as another new song in Deltron 3030 — Event II New York. Working with LCD Soundsystem’s James Murphy in Modest Mouse — TBA studio, their fourth album has been confirmed for a late 2013 re- Foster the People — TBA lease. — TBA RamPage Victor Valley College May 28, 2013 Page 18

Such dedicated students cam- paigning for classes all day. Silent but DEADLY Bye guys, DEAD-ICATED my shift is over

Comic by Rasheta Driver, RamPage Reporter

June 17 Summer classes begin (authorization codes required to add ALL classes

Summer opening book byback (see vvcrams.com for dates/hours)

June 20 Last day to drop a 6 or 8-week class and be eligible to apply for a refund

June 23 Last day to drop a 6-week class without receiving a “W”

June 23 Dedline to add a 6-week class

June 25 Last day to drop an 8-week class without receiving a “W”

June 25 Deadline to add an 8-week class

June 28 Last day to process book refunds and exchanges for 6 and 8-week classes– see vvcrams.com for dates/hours July 3 Last day to submit a Pass/No Pass grade option for 8-week classes

Last day to drop a 6-week class and receive a “W”

July 4 Independence Day holiday observed (no classes, offices closed, no registration ser- vices available) July 10 Last day to drop and 8-week class and receive a “W”

Summer Mid book buyback-see vvcrams.com for dates/hours

July 27 6-week classes end

Summer end book buyback-see vvcrams.com for dates/hours

August 8 Grade submission deadline (6-week classes)

August 10 8-week classes end

August 21 Grade submission deadline (8-week classes) RamPage Victor Valley College May 28, 2013 Page 19

@AdviceMallards 50 Popular Beliefs that People Think are True by Guy P. Harri- Simple advice to make every day son (left) life a little easier

Stitches: A Memoir by David Small @Drunk_Siri

Funny things your iPhone might And So It Goes: Kurt Vonne- tell you. gut: A Life by Charles J. Shields (right) @Hesperia_WX Tip Top Tap- ping: Simplified Weather alert for the High De- Lessons in Tap Dancing by sert...fire danger is extremely high Louis Shomer Seaman today.

The Werewolf Book: The Ency- clopedia of Shape-Shifting Beings by Brad Steiger (left) @VVCRamPage Follow us on and tweet us an interesting account you think we should feature in an upcoming editon of the RamPage!

Daft Punk from page 15 early 80’s by utilizing drum machines, synthesizers and es- pecially the , also I’m Siri! known as the ‘Voice box’ on most of its tracks, that lends it @Drunk_Siri that robotic lyrical flow that was made famous by late artist Rog- er Troutman. Daft Punk have been doing what they love for the last 20 years and RAM is only going to If a mouse family ever stole my smart phone and prolong their already worldwide used it as a flat screen TV, then I'm ok with it, as stature at the forefront of music and pop-culture. Without a long as they're happy. doubt, RAM is a solid release and sets the bar high for Daft Punk’s peers with a smooth easy -listening album that is as ambi- 5:01 PM - 24 May 13 tious and as top-notch of an album that has been made in recent years by anyone. RamPage Victor Valley College May 28, 2013 Page 20 STAND UP FOR STUDENTS! Campaign for Classes May 1 - June 7 State budget cuts have prevented Califonia Community Colleges from offering enough classes. Thousands of High Desert residents who need classes this term did not get them. Delays in access will result in Donate online at fewer graduates. Fortunately, the vvcfoundation.com Victor Valley College Foundation or text has a solution! GIVE2VVC to add classes to 20222 now Turn FRUSTRATION into *Your $10 donation will be charged to your next phone bill. GRADUATION Message & data rates may apply. Sign up to sit in AUTO OCCUPADO 5 1/2 weeks • 37 Days • 888 Hours Victor Valley College students, staff, faculty and friends Valley Hi Auto Dealers are will demonstrate the effect of state budget cuts on standing up for students! students’ educational plans by taking turns to sit idle in a new car for the entire length of the Campaign for Classes!

Sign up with the Victor Valley College Foundation to sponsor a day and help students get ahead. Call Catherine Abbott - 760.245.4271 ext. 2146 www.vvcfoundation.com

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