Volume CXV, edition 1 Since 1949 January 23. 2008 Student pepper-sprayed in altercation with police by Joseph Rios Once pulled over, the of- searched the students, the other find a half empty bottle of vodka. wet, he said. ficer said he smelled marijuana, searched the inside of Ibarra’s Ford Ibarra (24), Aguirre (21) claim “Then he threw me on the Editor In Chief spokesperson for the District District Police pepper Mustang. that the bottle had been there for ground,” Vazquez said. “He had all Police Lieutenant Richard Gaines sprayed and cited Fresno City The officer asked Vazquez days. Vazquez (20), said he only of his weight on me and I was on said. College student Michael Vazquez if he had any knives. Vazquez learned of the bottle after the police my stomach.” Upon noticing this, the after he refused to sit on a wet produced his pocketknife keychain search. Gaines said one of the pas- officer asked the three students curb in the McKinley parking lot and the officer allowed him to When one of the officers sengers (Vazquez) refused com- to step out of the car so he could Tuesday morning. keep it. asked Vazquez to sit on the curb, he mands from the officer and be- investigate further. Officers initially spotted “I was being cooperative,” squatted down. The officer asked came combative. This led to the Daniel Ibarra (the driver), the vehicle because one passenger Vazquez said. him to sit all of the way down and altercation. Carlos Aguirre, and Vazquez ex- appeared to be violating the seat Officers found no drugs or to cross his legs. Vazquez told him See “Three Students” on ited the vehicle. While one officer belt law. paraphernalia. They did, however, he did not want to get his clothes page 4 FCC: a Blackout Part II year in review by Eddie Ortiz Rampage Reporter A new year has just begun, but before we move forward to- wards the future, we must look back into the past. “[Fresno City College] had strong successes,” stated Dr. Ned Doffoney. During 2007, construction finally began on the Old Admin- istration Building. When Bond Measure E passed it provided $30 million to restore the historical site. The building will provide ad- ditional classroom space. “The construction on the OAB was a huge step in 2007,” stated Public Information Officer Kathy Bonilla. Also, the college re- ceived a much needed accred- itation. According to Bonilla, Dr.Doffoney did a great job in keeping a momentum going after the college’s successful accredita- Students crowd around the fountain after their classrooms went black for the second time in months. Photo by Joseph Rios tion. The president said he made sure the campus was in good shape throughout 2007 and was delighted Cat sacrifices itself for another dayoff all recommendations were met. Rampage Staff Report from the State Center Commu- and from Herndon to Downtown rial near the Free Speech area. And most of us can’t forget nity College District said. This Fresno. “We weren’t going to let that we almost had a presidential The Fresno City College included FCC. Some teachers chose to the devil get in our way,” Gra- hopeful, Hillary Clinton, visit our campus went black for the sec- Jeff Smith from PG&E told continue with their lectures. Black- ham said. campus. Officials said the com- ond time this academic year just the Fresno Bee that a cat crawled outs, it seems, are almost common- President Ned Doffoney munication flaws that prevented before noon on Jan 14. Students into the substation near Ashlan place. “The lights went out, class delivered his decision to cancel her appearance have now been flooded the hallways and grass and West avenues and sparked the was almost over, but our teacher the rest of afternoon classes at rectified. “It was a bump in the areas as they left their evacuated chain reaction. kept talking,” said Erica Perez who approximately 12:05 p.m. road,” said Dr. Doffoney. buildings. “Another cat or squirrel was in the Sociology Department. After the blackout last Dean of Instruction Tony Students in the Language sacrificed itself for us to have “Then another teacher told us to semester, Doffoney said, the col- Cantu described the past year as Arts building were heard saying, a day off,” FCC student Raisha get out.” lege learned to better facilitate “successful” and foresees an even “Not again.” Pacella said. Allen Graham moved his the exit of disabled students from more triumphant 2008 academic An explosion at a PG&E The power outage extend- weekly bible study from the senate the upper levels of department year. substation left 27,700 residents However, a good year is ed from Blackstone to Bethel chambers to the Veteran’s Memo- See “Evacs” on page 3 without power, a spokesperson See “OAB” on page 4 INSIDE
“Holiday Pain and Healing” “Living Out Auditions” “The Fierce Urgency of Now” “Candidate Forum” “ASG offers book loans” - page 2 - page 5 - page 10 - page 14 - page 15 2 Rampage News January 23, 2008 TheRampage Fresno City College’s Premier Student-Ran Publication
RAMPAGE FRESNO CITY COLLEGE 1101 E. UNIVERSITY AVE. FRESNO, CA 93741 Editor in chief: Joseph A. Rios News Editor: Carrie Gunter Views Editor: Cynthia Moreno Entertainment Editor: Cody Gless & Deshad Cato Business Manager: Leah Edwards Asst. Business Manager: Jeannie Batey Jessica Estrada lost her father and aunt during two separate holiday seasons. Photo by Joseph Rios Adviser: Dympna Ugwu-Oju About Us
Holiday brings... Reporters Rampage is an award-winning Joseph Rios, Carrie Gunter, newspaper published biweekly by the Jeannie Batey, Cynthia Moreno, Fresno City College Journalism 4 & 5 Cody Gless, Deshad Cato, Pedro programs and is a member of the Jour- Quintana, Adrine Avanesyan, Pain and Healing nalism Association of Community Col- Mona Lisa McCormick, Eddie Ortiz, Ivette Lopez, Joseph leges. Views expressed in The Rampage By David Malagon a deep state of depression and someone doesn’t have family or wasn’t able to focus on her studies friends they feel they can talk to Boone, Crystal Matthews, Alexis are those of the individual writers and Rampage Reporter as she had wanted. I strongly recommend they utilize Abrahamson, Marcell Dilworth, do not necessarily reflect those of Fresno Seiji Ashihara, Sebouh Simonian, She promised herself to the resources available at Fresno City College, its students, administration The Holiday season is a help anyone in similar circum- City because there is always David Malagon, Allisen Casares, or the State Center Community College time for families to rejoice, a time stances. Estrada decided to major someone there to listen and to John Esquiuel, Shirley Nakagawa, for individuals to make personal in Nursing because of her strong guide you.” Matthew Mendez District. dedications to better themselves desire to help others. The past holiday brought Contact the Rampage and the world around them. For “I have learned that life is grief for Estrada. Letters to the editor and submissions Jessica Estrada, the holiday season short, it’s precious and it’s some- “My Aunt Gloria meant the Business: (559) 442-8262 to the calendar will be accepted via was anything but peaceful, joyful, world to me, she was my second Production Rm:(559) 442-8263 thing to be valued,” Estrada said. e-mail or in person 12 noon - 1 p.m. or exciting. “I intend to make the most of it mother and a strong female in Fax: (559) 265-5783 In fact, it was an absolute and to learn as much as I can and my life, and she taught me to be E-mail: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, at The nightmare. Her inner most fears to love as much as I can and to be independent,” Estrada said. “She Editor In Chief: Rampage, Room SC- 211, above the came to life once again. She spent there for people who have been was the most intelligent woman [email protected] bookstore. Please keep all letters to another holiday season mourning Rampage business Office: there for me.” that I’ve ever known. a maximum of 500 words along with a deceased relative. Estrada’s loss was a dev- “She saved me. She was rampage-business@fresnocitycollege. contact information. While finishing up her first astating time for her, but she has someone who was always there for edu semester in 2005, her father Daniel tried to stay on track to complete me. I never went without emotion- Advisor: dympna.ugwu-oju@ Estrada passed away. The grief as many units as she can along ally and financially. She loved me fresnocitycollege.edu was too much for her to handle. the way. “Class is therapeutic. [It] like her own daughter.” Estrada was not able to complete kind of gives me a break from be- Estrada is currently en- her courses causing her to fail her ing sad, because I know I need to rolled in nine units at FCC and has entire first semester. She was car- focus,” Estrada said. no plans to quit - no matter what rying nine units at that time. Estrada also recommends comes her way. Classifieds About two years later, trag- services that are available to all “Just remember that life is a edy struck Estrada once again. Her students at Fresno City College roller coaster ride and we’re going aunt Gloria Olmos, also a FCC such as grief counseling at the to have our ups and downs but try 30 People Wanted to Lose Weight graduate, passed away due to com- Psychological Services office. not to let that interfere with your Up to 30 lbs / 30 days plications involving lymphoma on “When you’re going education,” Estrada said. “In the Cash Back Rewards Dec 14 2007. through losing a loved one, it’s long run it’s going to make life that After her father passed hard to do it alone without any much harder.” 1 on 1 Private Coaching away, 19 year old Estrada fell into support system,” Estrada said. “If Call (559) 412-2297
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Photo by Deshad Cato Hammers knocking again at the OAB quake-resistant building codes. by Joseph Boone in spite of its unique appearance the room will be used as a class- The Field Act was enacted on April Rampage Reporter room for normal functions. 10, 1933, in response to the Long Workers buzz as restoration Though the auditorium is Beach earthquake that left about and renovation efforts for the his- not being preserved in its original 600 schools damaged, 70 of which toric Old Administration Building state the changes are prudent for were destroyed. continue. Currently, trucks haul modern use. The old auditorium The OAB was originally out loads of hazardous materials had around 900 seats made for rel- completed in 1916, six years after from the building as other groups atively small people. Upon com- the schools founding and was not such as the State Center Commu- pletion the count will be reduced to built upon reinforced masonry (a nity College Foundation struggle about 700 significantly wider and necessity to comply with the Field to find donations needed to finance more comfortable seats. Act). “A lot of this remodeling is to reinforce the brick walls,” said the performing auditorium. “People are bigger now, Photo by Blake Gollmer According to Michelle they will appreciate the wider Speece. Firefighters help one of many disabled students down the stairs. Cantwell-Copher, executive di- seats,” said Dr. Ned Doffoney. The OAB served as the first rector of the Foundation, due to Other changes improve the per- permanent structure on what was then known as the Fresno State Evacs go a bit smoother the auditorium’s public access and forming atmosphere of the room tration was very kind and thought- revenue-producing status, the State such as sound insulation. Normal School campus, which Continued from page 1 later became Fresno State College. buildings. ful,” she said. of California refuses to finance that The auditorium is of special The perpetually hectic particular aspect of the restoration interest to the performing arts divi- Fresno State relocated in 1956 and Using the blue evacuation Fresno Junior College, presently chairs, firefighters removed each parking lot became worse - even and renovation. sions who perennially struggle to by FCC standards. Police Officers This led to the creation of find an appropriate venue at an known as FCC, purchased the disabled student one by one from campus. each department. Norman Nor- barricaded the entrances to the the Foundation, which is respon- appropriate time. An additional parking lots and directed the grid- sible for raising the additional $4 on-campus stage will ease booking The college made good use wood, a second year Psychology of the OAB, which functioned as student, was trapped on the third locked traffic out onto McKinley million needed to complete the at other venues like the theatre and and Blackstone avenues. auditorium with the rest of the potentially lure outside guests to a sort of heart of the school pro- floor of the Math and Science viding classrooms, administrative Building. Five firefighters assisted Some students stood strand- building. The first million was perform in the new facility. ed while their parents circled the raised internally among Fresno The OAB stage is signifi- offices, and plenty of room for the him to the ground floor. arts, be it musicians playing in the Kimra Woodson waited campus, unable to pick up their City College and District staff, and cantly smaller than the theatre children. thus far the Foundation has man- stage leaving it relatively ill-suited courtyard or guest speakers in the patiently for the fire crews to help auditorium. her down the stairs after she left Classes resumed the fol- aged to over double that amount for theatrical performances requir- lowing day. from outside donations. However, ing plenty of walking space and her business class. “The adminis- the Foundation has currently raised props. According to Brian Speece, $2.4 million, short of the $4 mil- director of operations for the OAB lion needed. project, the stage will primarily be The auditorium and a desig- used for musical performances. nated historical classroom will be The OAB was in use until renovated in an entirely different 1976 when it’s exemptions from way than the rest of the building. the Field Act were no longer While most of the OAB will con- granted. The Field Act requires sist of modernized classrooms, one that buildings receiving public room will be preserved as close as monies and housing K-14 students possible to its original state such as must comply with certain earth- wood floors and the like. However, 4 Rampage News January 23, 2008 OAB revitalization a key goal in ‘08 Continued from page 1 concerts throughout the year. Also, new faculty members grace FCC never without its share of tragedy. our band of Jazz composers, led by was a highlight in 2007. “2008 will “We lost some people in 2007, Mike Dana, rocked Fresno State be exciting,” said Cantu. that’s always difficult,” replied and local venues. From campus growth to Dr.Doffoney. “That was a low- The declining economy and working on student initiatives, light of last year.” upcoming presidential election Cantu is excited to see these things According to Dr.Doffoney will have a significant impact on take place this year. “I plan on the main focus in 2008 will be students this year, stated Bonilla. using all my vacation dates,” he student learning. “Getting the She predicts the possibility said jokingly. word out is always a challenge,” of fewer students attending FCC According to Cantu he will said Bonilla. as the economy slopes downward. continue to work hard and be the Bonilla said 2007 was a During 2008, Bonilla will continue best employer he can be. The good year and looks forward to to be a spokesperson for FCC. previous year ended on a high note future campus events. According to Tony Cantu, and accolades. Photo by Joseph Rios She said the college had a seeing so many faculty members However, school officials wonderful year in athletics. Both involved in outside interests was are predicting a better year to the men’s basketball team and a highlight in 2007. “It gives FCC come. With revitalization of the Three students cited wrestling squad won state cham- visibility,” he said. OAB, overcoming accreditation pionships. In addition to Cantu’s failures and a wide open national Continued from page 1 Vazquez said that the po- praise with staff involvement last presidential election set to take lice notified the campus nurse, The Arts Department pro- Justin Landis came back duced great plays for the commu- year, Cantu is also pleased with place with campus possibilities, to his car between classes around but was unavailable. Paramedics Associated Student Government’s the new year will be anything but treated Vazquez onsite. nity to see and the Music Depart- the time the scuffle began. “I was ment’s choir performed wonderful performance in 2007 and seeing average. standing on the opposite side of my All three students were truck,” he said. “At some point, I cited and released at the scene, started hearing a bunch of shout- Gaines said. Vazquez said that he ing. The guy on the ground was was taken to the District Police screaming that he couldn’t put his station where officers took his Want FCC News hands behind his back. The cop picture and recorded his finger- looked really calm and the guy just prints. They did not read him his kept screaming for a long time.” rights, he said. “Then he was like, ‘I’m go- Ibarra received a vehicle ing to mace you, I’m going to mace code violation and Vazquez has you,’” Vazquez said of the officer a court date in March. on top of him. “Then he sprayed “It could have been han- Online? me three times.” dled better on both sides,” Agu- Officers detained Vazquez irre said. in the back of one of the two Vazquez met with Dean police cars on the scene. Officers of Students Robert Fox recently. www.fresnocitycollegerampage.com continued to fill out the necessary His future on this campus is paper work with the cooperation uncertain. The incident must be Contact Us: [email protected] of Ibarra and Aguirre. reviewed. January 23, 2008 Theatre Arts Rampage 5
Photos by Joseph Rios
The Audition: “Living Out”
Top From Left: Lori Gambero, Alex Gorman, and Laura Castro read from the play in the first stage of callbacks. Second Row, Left: Debbi Shapazian; second row, center: Lauren De la Torre; Second row, right: Director Charles Erven. For those who do get called Erven just said great job structive criticism for each person. by Alexis Abrahamson The auditions were only back, practice will be five nights with a smile and asked her a few He advised some to forget the half the battle for most of the ac- Rampage Reporter a week from five to nine at night. questions about herself. script and improvise. He directed tors and actresses; they also had to It may be out of the ordinary This informed all the actors that While waiting in line to au- others on how to best relate with show off their talents at callbacks to see fellow students scattered this was no small commitment dition you could see all the anxious their character. later that week. around the dull lit hallways talking whatsoever, this is going to be a actors and actresses joke around to themselves in what would seem day and night obligation. with each other to help with the to be a one-sided argument. All of them one by one left nervousness. If you looked down the hall the vacant theatre to wait outside Lauren DelaTorre, who was in the Green Room just before the for their chance to audition. auditioning said, “In order to get recent auditions, you would have Erven sat in the front row mentally ready for a monologue seen a pair of girls doing just that and scriblled notes. When the first I listen to music that best fits the with scripts in their hands having actress walked onto the center of mood of the character.” They all an imitated conversation. A line the stage, Erven had her explain discussed with each other what of people stood nervously prepar- what monologue she was perform- type of music they listen to. Many ing for their monologues that they ing and to start whenever she was jokes were made but all laughs had to perform in front of Director ready. sounded distracted by the grow- Chuck Erven. When she began, her face ing anxiety. Erven held auditions for the changed from nervous to love sick One by one each actor or Spring showing of “Living Out” in the blink of an eye. actress would come in and try their on Jan. 9. Her eyes seemed vacant best. Many of their performances In the beginning of audi- and sensitive staring into the dark suffered because of nervousness. tions Erven sat on the bare stage nothingness of the theatre. Only When asked if he takes it stripped of everything except the a few streams of light shone from into consideration that nerves may gray fold out chair he was seated above onto the black, wide-open interfere with their performance, on. stage. Erven said, “I take it into consider- The actors vying for a part She expressed how much ation to try to alleviate them when listened and waited quietly for she loved her boyfriend and how they are nervous because I want to direction. Erven explained that the their relationship affected her life be able to see them at their very way he produces would be very in more ways than one. After a few best, which is why I do it in private intimate and flexible. minutes of watching this pained so I can help them.” He told them that whoever woman, it was bizarre to see her Anyone can tell by the way does not get picked he would still revert back into her normal state. that Erven interacts with the actors F r e s n o C i t y call and notify them personally so She wiped the false tears off her that he wants them to do the best if they have any questions he can smiling face and readied herself they can. get them answered, something for critique. He had some sort of con- Bookstore many directors do not do. 6 Rampage News January 23, 2008 The Status of Democracy Worldwide The philosopher Plato first described it as “a rule by the governed.” Our founding fathers took their infinite wisdom and laid the groundwork for what has now been the blueprint for nations across the world. In recent years many countries have adopted the democratic process, more than any other time in history. Yet, as recent events show, democracy is not a pill easily swallowed. by Deshad Cato
Kenya Implodes
Getty Images Pakistan is not the only country. Reports of voter rigging, Kenya and the direct challeng- Pakistan Loses a Leader place where the principles of manipulations of admissions, ers to the Kikuyu domination of democracy are being put to the incorrect figures, and the effects politics. Former Prime Minister of cratic Pakistan,” said Johal. “They fire. of tribalism are believed to be the The age-old struggle be- Pakistan Benazir Bhutto was as- where looking favorably on her Civil unrest exploded in main reasons for the chaos with tween these tribes and the ruling sassinated while leaving a rally return to politics in Pakistan. Kenya after the country’s presi- tribalism being the focal point. Kikuyus is what pushed Kenya to to gain support for her attempt at “Pakistan is a key country dential elections took place. Kibaki belongs to the its breaking point. The political re-election on Dec. 27, 2007. for the United States because of Incumbent Mwai Kibaki won the Kikuyu Tribe, Kenya’s most climate in Kenya is a volatile one The Interior Ministry of the so-called ‘War on Terrorism’ widely disputed race. Support- dominant and economically ac- more so now than ever. Pakastan stated that they had with neighboring countries and ers of Kibaki’s opponent, Raila tive ethnic group. His opponent The New York Times re- proof that al-Qaida was in fact also because Pakistan has nuclear Odinga, showed their disapproval Raila Odinga is of the Lou Tribe, ports as many as 650 dead due to behind Bhutto’s death. High rank- weapons. It’s a country that is very by rioting in several parts of the the third largest ethnic group in recent conflicts. ing members of the organization important to America’s security said that al-Qaida had nothing to because the hope is that we have a With all the world’s woes cent of the voters rejected the do with the assassination and the country that is democratic there.” being thrown into are homes and 69 amendments proposed by allegations of their involvement Mr. Johal also spoke about onto our computer screens it’s Chavez. was a planted story, the Associated how Bhutto’s assination will affect hard to notice when Democracy After the referendum re- Press reported. the upcoming election. Terrorism actually does what it’s original sults were made public Chavez Benazir Bhutto’s death sent has already become one of the hot creators dreamt that it would stated that he would step down shockwaves worldwide. Many button issues in America and on do. at the end of his second term in countries chimed in on the impor- the world stage. On Aug. 15, 2007 Hugo 2013. tant role she played to the people “I don’t see there being a Chavez called for presidential It’s moments like these that of Pakistan. whole lot of difference in foreign term limits to come to an end, prove while Democracy is by no In Pakistan, after the news politics as it relates to Pakistan. extending his rule indefinitely. means an easy goal, it is a goal of her death was announced, her There will be different emphasis, He was overwhelmingly worth fighting for. supporters’ grief and anguish with more emphasis on democ- backed by The National As- Whether it be a Boston turned into rage. Riots broke out racy. Terrorism will be important sembly of Venezuela and was Tea Party, a French Revolution, all over the country. but it won’t be as stressed as much confident going in the Dec. 2 or simply flexing of our political America lost a vital ally in seeing as how some Democratic referendum, a direct vote in right to say “no” democracy is the war on terrorism and in the candidates want to pull out of Iraq. Venezuelans which an entire group of people the essential tool for the world to quest for a democratic Pakistan. Regardless of that fact, I believe are entitled to vote in an election gain its liberty whether it is for “The Bush Administration Pakistan will still be an important Speak Up if asked to either accept or reject Venezuela, Kenya, Pakistan, and placed a lot of hope on Benazir country for the United States,” a particular proposal, vote. yes, even America. Bhutto because they want a demo- Johal said. On Dec. 2, 2007, 51 per- Call for Nominations for Wall of Honor The 2007-2008 WALL OF HONOR Committe invites you to nominate individuals for the State Center Community College’s WALL OF HONOR at the African American Historical and Cultural Museum. The recognition ceremony will be on Feb. 28, 2008.
* The Wall of Honor is dedicated to recognizeing the contributions of outstanding African Americans who have distinguished themselves and are affiliated with the State Center Community College District.
All nominees must exhibit personal and professional integrity and a commitment to strong ethical values. All nominees will be considered regardless of age, gender, educational background or religion. Your input is valuable to us and will be greatly appreciated. FOR SPECIFIC CRITERIA AND A NOMINATION FORM PLEASE CONTACT:
Teresa Patterson, Committee Chair State Center Community College District Office 244-2637 [email protected] fax 226-3757 COMPLETED FORMS MUST BE RETURNED TO TERESA PATTERSON BY JANUARY 25, 2008 Entertainment 7 Rampage January 23, 2008 In The Name Of Burt Reynolds... them off you’d better make sure always with enough bone crunch- By: Deshad Cato you live up to the standard. ing blows to have you flinching Rampage Reporter And that’s where “In with sick glee. Uwe Boll is responsible for The Name of the King” falls The rest of the cast was taking some of the most beloved short. While the action lives up to okay at best. The most entertain- video games of our time and butch- today’s standards of special effects ing of the bunch is Burt Reynolds ering them beyond belief. Every and fight scenes it’s the story that as the king. When you stop and bad, stupid, idiotic video game falls flat. Not because it’s a bad realize that Burt Reynolds is ac- adaptation you’ve ever seen in story, but just because we’ve seen tually playing a king in a movie your life was probably directed by everything it has to offer. There you paid to watch…well lets just this man. His latest offering is “In isn’t a single original bone in this say it gets really funny after that. The Name of the King: A Dungeon films body. Not in that “I’m laughing at Burt Siege Tale”, and just like all of Couple this with the hor- Reynolds” type of way, but in that his movies it’s based on the video rible editing, I swear the movie “Oh my God its Burt Reynolds!” game of the same name. switched from scene to scene in kind of way. I have to say I was really 4 minute intervals, and it’s obvi- And that my friends is what surprised by this film. Don’t get me ous that this was just a ploy to get almost saves this film. wrong it was still a mediocre film, movie goers money. I will admit If you can get past the fact photo provided by google.com but it was entertaining all the more however that this is probably that “In The Name of the King” is for it. Bolls’ best work to date. just another in a long list of bad At its core “In The Name likes watching movies so bad the It would seem that Boll Jason Stathom, of “The gaming movies then it can be a re- of the King” is a dumb movie made concious effort to rip off of actually kind of entertaining. For Transporter” films and “War’ op- ally enjoyable little movie. I’m not for dumb action junkies. I would the rest of us, those who actually every medieval film you’ve ever Publication Size Run Date(s) Initial Time posite Jet Li, does a good enough sure if that’s what the director was recSF ommend this movie for anyone seen. – enjoy good movies, I’d wait the 3 Job in the acting department. It going for, but that’s what it turned whoRAM wished PAGE that the “Lord Of 3.901The xmonths 10 untilWEDNESDA “In The NameY 1.23 of the You have a bit of “King would be easy enough seeing as out to be. Rings”THA films were only a one part Arthur”, a dash of “Merlin”, and a King: A Dungeon Tale” makes its how he kind of plays the same The bad acting, predictable type of deal or for anyone who way onto HBO. big chunk of “Lord of the Rings”. guy in every movie, but at least plot, and shoddy editing all serve as The only thing wrong with that is he plays them with a sort of cha- a simple tool to keep you interested all the aforementioned movies are risma. And just as expected, his just enough to where you don’t really good; so if your going to rip fight scenes are as enjoyable as walk out of the theater. Clover-failure
by Cynthia Moreno ing Lily’s apartment. One vivid Views Editor moment in the movie: the Statue of Liberty’s head being ripped off There are few movies that and thrusted into the streets of New can capture the moment when an York City. oversized, human-flesh eating, Rob is determined to find alien looking, government-experi- Lily when he learns that she is hurt ment monster attacks a major city and trapped in her apartment. in America. Perhaps King Kong Eventually, Rob and his or Godzilla paved the way for friends’ parade to the dangerous abnormal sized animals taking side of town taking a non-so sce- over major cities and winning the nic route through a subway tunnel affection over humankind. where they are viciously attacked Well, for King Kong it was by the monsters devil-dwarfs. Af- winning the affection of a slim, Google Images ter a small brawl, Rob rescues his golden-haired young woman whom was clear to see that Rob and Lily beloved in her Leaning Tower of falls in love him. Or at least, that’s Pisa-looking apartment complex what us moviegoers would like to were in love with one another. At the bash, she walks that the monster managed to push think. Godzilla wasn’t so lucky, down. and neither was Cloverfield’s alien in late with a new guy. Rob, his brother Jason, and his girlfriend The rest is history- as both monster. Rob and Lily’s failed attempts of In Cloverfield, the monster are shocked. Post-college gossip becomes the main appetizer at the getting out of New York lead them is everything but nice- and its nowhere but to Central Park- a agenda is filled with disdain for bash as word of mouth dishes out that Lily had slept with Rob. place where their last few breaths civilization. It rampages through of life were taken underneath a # the city of New York, causing So why was she with an- other guy? Both wind up having bridge. major earthquakes as he stomped To make matters worse, in rage throughout the city. It took an argument- and the camera, which was initially intended to they wind up giving their own ! its vengeance out on buildings, farewell speeches to the running bridges, and people. give Rob a collection of farewell " speeches-, ends up being the lens camcorder, whom throughout the Just minutes before his entire movie, lived longer than any # rampage, a group of friends threw by which the movie takes place- and intensifies the love affair of the actors and actresses. What a going-away bash for a guy named happened to the monster in the end Rob who would be moving away between Rob and Lily. The camera never stops is unknown. " " to Japan for an amazing corporate The movie finishes with job. rolling- not until the movie is "RAMBO over-, which delivers a devastat- Rob and Lily’s tears of fear and an Rob was not an ordinary energizer-bunny camcorder that man- for he had the love of a beau- ing blow to the audience. Think # # $ # of Cloverfield as this: The Blair stays on long after the bridge where tiful young woman by the name of Rob and Lily hid collapses into # Lily, an apartment with a priceless Witch Project meets New York- a pile of rumble in Central Park. "" """ # view of Manhattan in the thriving minus the throwing up feeling. The only feeling one experiences Moviegoers: save your money and # metropolis of New York City and the popcorn cravings for a better a profound talent for documenting is complete and utter fear since No purchase necessary. Limit one “admit two” pass per person/household. the monster appears to have nine movie. This film is rated R. Run-of-engagement passes received through this promotion do not guarantee admission to the every moment of his young life theatre. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Theatre is open to paying customers. All federal, state and local more lives than the average cat. Cloverfield’s ending disap- regulations apply. A recipient of tickets assumes any and all risks related to use of ticket and accepts any restrictions with his camcorder. required by ticket provider. Lionsgate, Terry Hines & Associates, The Rampage and their affiliates accept no No military bomb, gre- points the audience leaving them in responsibility or liability in connection with any loss or accident incurred in connection with use of a prize. Tickets He had clips from the mo- cannot be exchanged, transferred or redeemed for cash, in whole or in part. We are not responsible if, for any reason, nade, or fighter jet manages to wonder. Oh, and another thing- be- winner is unable to use his/her ticket in whole or in part. Not responsible for lost, delayed or misdirected entries. All ments he spent with Lily- traveling, federal and local taxes are the responsibility of the winner. Void where prohibited by law. No purchase necessary. kill the beast that knocks over just ware- according to the movie- the Participating sponsors their employees & family members and their agencies are not eligible. NO PHONE CALLS! talking, and eating. Let’s not for- monster never died. Is that a sonic get- there was also a bed scene. It about every major building in the New York City landscape, includ- boom I hear? IN THEATERS JANUARY 25 8 Rampage Entertainment January 23,2008 Positive vibrations Shameless Tour 2007 and heading vocals, Ryan Demars by Cody Gless on bass, Adam Patters on drums/ Entertainment Editor backup vocals and Raul Bianchi If you’re looking to hear on lead guitar. technical perfection, a perfect “A Their ability to fuse reg- pentatonic” or a bunch of whiney gae and metal is impeccable. Two douche’s crying about their girl- genres of music that would have friends; you won’t find it at a never ordinarily seemed possible Pepper show. to mesh, come together to form a You’ll find a laid back genre all its own. Transitioning be- group of guys simply doing what tween roots reggae and face melt- they love and increasing their ing “Iron Maidenesque” metal. loyal fan base one amazing show One of my favorite albums at a time. “Gettin’ Filthy” was released in The experience you will 2004’ featuring songs like: bowl undergo at a Pepper concert is one for two and let her go. Since then, all its own. From the band to the the Expendables have released fans, Pepper’s primary goal is to their self-titled album; which is a create a fun environment for not close second. only the fans but for themselves If you ever have the chance as well. to catch the Expendables live, I To classify Pepper into strongly recommend it, if not; one genre or stereotypical group picking up an album is a must! is impossible.The Kona based Ha- Despite the technical dif- ficulties that Passafire had to deal waiian trio known as Pepper draws Sublime and Nirvana to old school Hexum of 311, Tony Kanal of No sman said with a smile. with towards the beginning of their influences from a number Metallica and even the Police, Doubt as well as the innovative You may have caught Pep- their set, they were able to put on of varying genres and have had a Pepper exudes a truly innovative input of Paul Leary of the Butthole per on their most recent national an outstanding performance and number of different bands and art- persona and sound. Surfers. headlining tour with the amazing produced an amazing unnaturally, ists that have contributed to their Their most recent album, Pepper consists of a three- Santa Cruz based Reggae/Metal natural reggae vibe given their inspirations and productions. No Shame was released on Octo- member make up: Brett Bol- fusion Known as the Expendables southern roots. The best way to describe ber 3rd, 2006 and can be described linger-bass and vocals, Kaleo along with Up and coming Dub- This reporter had the chance Pepper’s sound would be to say as the bands “totally uncut and Wassman- guitar and vocals And Reggae/Rockers, Passafire hailing to sit down and get a feel for where that their Hawaiian Reggae roots uncensored” album. Pepper prides Yesod Williams on drums. from Savannah Ga. the band was really coming from got it on with Punk; Dub and Ska this album for showcasing each The three originally came The Expendables are a truly by getting a little perspective from jumped into the mix, and hip hop member and showing them all for from The “Big Island” of Hawaii. talented group of musicians and each member.Passafire is made up got it all on tape with the end result who they truly are, musically and “We grew up aspiring to be profes- are as humble and easy going as of four members: Ted Browne- being Pepper. personally. sional surfers” recalled Wassman, they are skilled; making the impos- guitar and vocals, Adam Willis Pepper draws their influ- The album No Shame, has “When we discovered that we sible possible. on keys, Will Kubley on bass and ences from a wide array of bands, had contributions from two of the weren’t that great at surfing we The band consists of four from The Red Hot Chili Peppers, “Nu-Ska and Reggae greats”; Nick settled on being musicians.” Was- members: Geoff Weers on guitar Continued on pg 9
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Call 1-800-MY-APPLE or visit www.apple.com/edu/fresnocc Entertainment January 23,2008 Rampage 9 Positive vibrations Continued From pg 8 getting their name out there. You can find Passafire on vocals, and brother Nick Kubley Peppers record Label, Law Re- on drums. cords as well as on tour, as they “We would primarily de- continue to tour whenever they get scribe the genre of our music as the chance. The band is currently reggae/rock” stated Willis, “The on the road with the reggae genius bands that have influenced us the of bands like Badfish, The Wailers, most over the years, has been The and 311. Police, The Clash, and 311” said Given this bands work ethic Browne, “We most recently have along with their innate ability to been grabbing inspirations through harness their raw talent to produce sitting down and listening to bands a sound all their own; I can tell we normally never would have you right now, this band is going thought of listening to”. places, so if you want to catch an The bands formation is unforgettable show, make that trip rooted in Savannah, Georgia, out and Catch a Fire with Passafire. of Savannah College of Art and This tour has been Phenom- Design. Passafire met and got enal. You couldn’t ask for a much together on almost what seems to better lineup than The Expend- be an accidental basis. ables, Pepper and Passafire to keep “We originally got together the mood right. to do a school project,” said Willis, The only thing that could a music production major at the make for a better show is by throw- time. “After we messed around ing SLIGHTLY STOOPID into the for a while and thought we didn’t mix, and we’re in luck, the people sound too bad, we picked up a Silver Back Management along bassist”, (Will Kubley, who was with Law Records, and Earshot a high school senior at the time) Media has put together an upcom- “and decided to start gigging ing tour with Headliners: Pepper around town” and Slightly Stoopid. The bands success thus far I’ll have all the details as can be attributed solely to hard well as a review in upcoming work and dedication. issues.Until then, this is Cody, During the bands humble bringing you the scoop on what’s beginnings, Keyboardist, Adam happening in music. Willis acted not only as a musician, A Special thanks to: but as the bands primary promoter Mike Cubillos, Coach, Pep- and manager as well; booking the per, The Expendables and majority of the bands shows and Passafire.
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This discount is valid for sale 01Sep07-19Jun08 and valid for travel 04Sep07-22Jun08 on the Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquins and associated thruway service, including Merced to Yosemite, all other 7000-8999 series thruways are excluded. Offer valid for 20 percent off the best available coach adult rail fare for students of the following California Colleges and Universities: California State University (Bakersfield and Fresno), Fresno City College (Fresno), California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo), University of California (Merced, Irvine, and Santa Barbara, University of the Pacific (Stockton), University of San Diego (San Diego), San Diego State University (San Diego), and Santa Barbara City College (Santa Barbara). Blackouts apply for the following dates: 20-27Nov07, 14Dec07-02Jan08, 20-24Mar08 and 23-26May08. Passenger must be a student and show a valid student ID (when purchasing tickets and on board train) for one of the colleges listed above. Reservation must be made at least three (3) days prior to travel date. Once travel has begun, no changes to the itinerary are permitted. This discount is not valid towards purchase of multi-rides and is not valid thru a travel agency. Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply. Refer to discount V363. Amtrak, Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquins and Travel Made Simple are service marks of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.
07-CAL-055-CollegeAd-Fresno City1 1 8/24/07 9:26:58 AM Views January 23, 2008 10 Campus Voices Pro v. Con Campus Voices Death Penalty Evokes Mixed Feelings An ‘eye for an eye’ leaves us blind peals and legal wrangling that By Eddie Ortiz keeps the process dragging, RampageReporter yet we still insist on wasting our hard earned money on this process. It took Angel Diaz 34 Saddam Hussein and minutes to die -- 34 excruciat- Kim Jong-il are people who we ingly painful minutes of wait- condemn for murdering their ing for the chemicals flowing own people, while we continue into his body through the IV to do the same. tubes in both arms to kill him. The 8th Amendment of According to witnesses, his the U.S. Constitution prevents eyes widened, his head rolled, the use of “cruel and unusual he continued to speak, and his punishment”. Some would say body continued to move limply the death penalty violates this WWW.GOOGLEIMAGES.COM for 24 minutes. His Adam’s restriction. apple bounced up and down What is even more dis- continually and his jaw was turbing is the possibility of in- clenched. nocent men and women being Death pays its dues Diaz was executed in put to death. Florida on Dec.13, 2007 for There are several docu- ing it. Why is a new death row on is a savings of about 10 million. By Alexis Abrahamson murdering the manager of a mented cases where DNA test- the top of the list? It isn’t like the However, a more realistic topless bar. After his body was ing showed an innocent man or Rampage Reporter inmates on death row are going to approach to this situation would removed, it was clear that Di- woman was put to death by the go anywhere anytime soon. be to shorten the appeals process. az’s execution was botched. government. It comes down to On the average it takes The American legal system al- Even though this case economics; a poor defendant is Let me sketch out for you over ten to fifteen years to ex- lows criminals to overturn their holds no real value to residents given inadequate legal atten- what Governor Schwarzeneg- ecute someone on death row. Our convictions by continually ap- of California, it is clear that tion by not-so qualified legal ger’s new budget plan for Cali- tax dollars are not only spent to pealing a courts decision. This the death penalty has become a representation. These mistakes fornia is going to be. We have a house them for all those years, process is costly and timely. The barbaric form of punishment. cannot be afforded. $141 billion dollar budget plan but it will also cost and additional way California’s legal system is Recently, the California It’s understandable that that aims towards cutting educa- $17,000 dollars for each inmate set up, criminals on death row Commission on the Fair Ad- little sympathy is given to a tion funding and state subsidies to be executed. can spend their entire lives ap- ministration of Justice (CFAJ) murderer, but what we need for the elderly by ten percent, If the drugs to execute pealing their verdict, while we examined the state’s death to grasp is when someone is and Medi-Cal could face a billion them only cost $122, then what pay for their lawyer fees. penalty in an effort to identify given a death sentence the pain dollar cut as well. If that isn’t bad the heck are we spending the Although it is very rare, inconsistencies in its applica- suffered is over in an instant. enough 22,000 inmates are going other $16,878 dollars on?! I as- some inmates on death row are tion and reforms for improving With life in prison, the pain to be released early. sume it’s all of the extra fees for innocent, and they have a chance the system. goes on forever. It forces the This is the plan to save an execution team, maintenance, to prove their innocence through There are two common prisoner to examine the crime Californians from the $14 billion and last suppers. the appeals process. arguments in support of capital they committed everyday, dollar deficit that is breathing California has the most I propose that there be punishment: avoidance of the whether it is rape or violence; down our necks. Since Schwar- congested death row, holding a limited number of appeals actual problem and revenge. internally the person has to zenegger is truthful when he says 641condemned inmates. As an to which an inmate is entitled. Should the death penalty live in that environment. that we are facing a multi-billion alternative to spending a billion That way, an inmate on death be abolished in California? I The death penalty is use- dollar deficit, then why is he go- dollars for a new death row com- row would still have the chance say no, but what I do think, is less. The death penalty doesn’t ing to spend $136 million on a plex for inmates who are going to prove their innocence and that the death penalty hasn’t change the fact that the victim new death row at San Quentin to be dead in ten to twenty years taxepayers could save millions stopped crime. is gone and won’t return to the There are many reasons living. Hate, revenge, and an- why capital punishment is ger isn’t the cure to the pain of High death penalty costs result in American deficit. deeply flawed: it costs tax pay- losing a loved one. It all starts ers more to execute someone with forgiveness; there the On average, it takes over ten to fifteen years to execute than to keep them in prison for healing process can begin. life, it violates the 8th Amend- In the end, we as a so- someone who is on death row. ment, the possibility of putting c i e t y h a v e t o m o v e a w a y an innocent man or woman from the “eye for an eye” to death is high, and life in revenge mentality if we want State Prison? San Quentin is not anyways, we should just get rid of dollars. prison is a worse punishment to advance as a civilization. only the oldest prison we have, of them now. If the liberals would stop and more effective, and killing The “eye for an eye” frame but it also is the most expensive No death row prancing around issues involv- the perpetrator doesn’t bring of thinking will never solve out of all of them to operate. inmates, means no need for a new ing the 1% of death row inmates the victim back to life. anything. If we keep think- By the time this idea is billion dollar complex. that were proven innocent, then Does the death penalty ing revenge is the solution to finished it is going to wind up Spending $17,000 to ex- perhaps we could focus on more put an end to violence and teaching murders and rapists costing California over a billion ecute each one of them is obvi- important issues facing Cali- criminal behavior? Is it pos- a lesson, then all we have is dollars. In the very beginning the ously ridiculous; in the end it fornia. sible a potential murderer a vicious cycle of continued Legislature granted $220 million would wind up costing us $10, All in all, the death penalty considers the possibility that violence. for the project. Just on the plan- 897,000 dollars total. shouldn’t be a drawn out process. he or she might be convicted Let your burden of hate, ning for this complex has cost I believe a more reason- And in times of debt, building of a crime and face the death anger, and revenge be on the $20 million; the building is going able, simplistic and cheaper way new facilities to house these penalty? It’s highly unlikely. murderers and rapists of the to be around $356 million to con- to perform executions would be inmates shouldn’t be on the top According to www.bal- world. struct. The price of this project is to just give them an $8.99 bottle of our to-do list. If the California ancedpolitics.org, carrying out It’s like what Mahatma costing us way more money then of NyQuil to drink, and shoot government insists on splurging one death sentence costs two Gandhi once said, “The weak anyone expected. them when they pass out. That on non important projects, we to five times more than keep- can never forgive. Forgive- It doesn’t make sense that would only cost about $5,762.59 won’t be getting ourselves out ing a criminal in prison for ness is the attribute of the we are going to spend money plus the additional cost of the of debt anytime soon. life. It’s due to countless ap- strong”. while we are supposed to be sav- bullet to execute them all. This Janurary 23, 2008 Views Rampage 11 The Fierce Urgency of Now Americans have always been dreamers; it is time for their dreams to be realized By Joseph Rios
WWW.GOOGLEIMAGES.COM T he nation waits in antici- premiums, increasing tuition costs, Iowa. What materialized in the of a governing body that closes its They are tired of manacled pation as we prepare to usher in the statewide budget cuts, severed subsequent primaries was anything ears to their cries. They are tired of dreams and unrealized aspirations. birth of a new era in the American international ties, and a growing but ordinary, normal, or business a governing body unsympathetic They tired of lip service and inac- saga. number of nuclear armed super- as usual. to their strife. tion. They are tired of being told Or it could be business as powers around the globe. If the first primaries showed Ronald Reagan was only that human progress rolls in on usual. Oh, and lest I forget, there us anything, it is that Americans half-right when he said that Ameri- the wheels of inevitably. They will We Americans who are of is always poverty, disease, crime hunger for righteous leadership can is like a “Great Shining City on wait their turn no longer. voting age in the year of our Lord and the threat of terrorism. and peaceful promise. We starve a Hill.” Yes, for some Americans, No longer will the Ameri- two thousand and eight have an op- The future has not looked for economic restructuring and times could not be better. can name be synonymous with portunity to be a part of something this grim in decades and solutions fiscal assurance, for our future is But I have to agree with empire and tyranny. bigger than ourselves. are so very few. Yet, I believe the insecure. former New York Governor Ma- Let the voices of peace Or it could be just like every drive for progress has only begun Middle class citizens are rio Cuomo, though, who said we ring out in the times to come. Let other year. to gain traction. Even amidst these tired of watching millionaires get resemble a “Tale of Two Cities.” the cries of the hungry, the sick, All areas of the American seemingly indomitable troubles, all of the tax breaks. They are tired Presidential Candidate John Ed- and impoverished reverberate experience point to a country preg- our country has found reason to of seeing their children get fun- wards described a similar scenario throughout the great halls of the nant with change. Her long car- hope; we have found reason to neled into factories they worked in his “Two Americas” speech to Capitol. May our leaders rise upon riage of this restless child shows dream. so hard to keep them out of. the Democratic National Conven- righteous wings into the realm of signs of a troubled birth to come, I believe the words of Ad- They are tired of seeing tion. revolutionary consciousness. And but new life nonetheless. miral Isoruku Yamamoto in the those same jobs get shipped over- Both are correct. may justice fall from the sky like Yes, we Americans have film “TORA! TORA! TORA!” seas or across the border. They Unfortunately the United rain onto this arid land. many reasons to doubt and be have come to pass once again and, are tired of American cars made States has not lived up to its prom- May our renewed sense of skeptical. “…all we have done is to awaken in Brazil and Japanese ones made ise of equality. responsibility and commitment to The last eight years have a sleeping giant and fill him with here. The economic divides could freedom be a point of solace to our not given the American people a terrible resolve.” They are tired of giving the not be steeper and the lines drawn despondent allies. And to those we much reason to hope and the past We as a nation are fed up bulk of their checks to insurance in racial sands could not be more may call foe, my hope is that this months on Wall Street have done with the direction and condition of companies. They are tired of over- prominent. The only minority our eminent awakening be a symbolic their share to damage the optimism our country and we refuse to stay drawing their checking accounts government seems to fight for is olive branch that would stand as a of our citizens. the course. I believe we so many at the end of the month. They are the wealthy. testament of our good will. And yes, Americans are who have our eyes on the current tired of paying credit card bills Poor Americans of all col- Finally, may the words of staring down the barrels of many events of this country bear wit- that never seem to shrink. They ors are tired of looking up at the John F. Kennedy give us strength guns: the growing anxiety as a ness to the infant stages of a Great are tired of milk prices going up “Great Shining City on a Hill” as we pursue this grand endeavor, result of the sub prime mortgage Awakening. before the bottle reaches the “sell from the valley of poverty and “All this will not be finished in crisis, the economic downturn, the Across the nation, we tuned by” date. And they are tired of a despair. the first 100 days. Nor will it be looming recession, the skyrocket- in and marveled at the record government that allows foreclo- They are tired of the moat finished in the first 1,000 days, nor ing price of oil, an endless war in numbers of voters, on both sides sures on their homes as well as and sentry that prevents them from in the life of this Administration, Iraq and Afghanistan, threat of of the aisle, who showed up and their liberty. entering the walls of the shining nor even perhaps in our lifetime on war in Iran, high health insurance caucused for their candidate in Most of all, they are tired city they call their neighbor. this planet. But let us begin.”
“Let the voices of peace ring out in the times to come. Let the cries of the hungry, the sick, and impoverished reverberate throughout the great halls of the Capitol. May our leaders rise upon righteous wings into the realm of revolutionary consciousness. And may justice fall from the sky like rain onto this arid land.” 12 Rampage Views Janurary 23, 2008 Black Issue Shows Shades of Gray By Deshad Cato who report on Obamas’ growing base showed that many white voters support- the whole Lewinsky fiasco, of Bill Clin- of support always seem to be in shock ed him; that is until the primaries started tons’ administration. These individuals Rampage Reporter that every black person in America isn’t and the same voters who pledged to vote put their trust in Hillary to bring back clamoring behind Obama, and while that for him dealt him a crushing blow and some of those ideals; things like a bet- The time for America to once in itself speaks of how little these so voted for the opposition. That opposition ter health care plan and a cut on taxes. again choose its President is fast ap- called “political experts” know about the came in the form of Michael Dukakis; There’s also those who can identify proaching us, and one of those individu- voting and racial climate in America. Jackson’s very white opponent. with Edwards’ upbringing as part of a als vying for the job is working class family Barack Obama. This and his average man charismatic senator image; a trait some from Illinois has led a experts say he shares grass roots movement with Obama. for change that has Then there are catapulted him to the the African Ameri- spotlight along with cans who are simply his main opponents for Republicans who have the democratic ticket, a completely different Hillary Clinton and set of candidates to John Edwards. think of. These voters Over the course are harder to convince of a year, Obama has based on different is- gained major support sues. from the American You combine people. His message the pressure of having of change and hope to convince a voter to for a better, more uni- change their candidate fied America has tran- and potentially their scended color, age, and party. This daunting political lines. With his task is accentuated by recent preliminary win past years of broken in Iowa, his close sec- promises, shattered ond in Michigan, and hopes, and forgotten a controversial finish policies. These are in Nevada, it would the obstancles Barack seem that Obama has WWW.GOOGLEIMAGES.COM Obama faces. done what many of his opponents This is a reality that I’m said he couldn’t do. This makes a sure the Obama camp has realized considerable impact on the 2008 A lot of people have given out the Bradley Effect: since day one of their campaign. presidential race. when a voter says they’ll vote for a non-white candidate only to There have already been allegations However, with all his mo- turn around and vote for the white candidate. that while he’s one of the best candi- mentum and support, there is one dates for the presidential nomination, major issue that Obama has to Obama lacks the overall “blackness” face that none of his opponents The truth is that while many It was a hard pill to swallow for to win the minority vote. Again, this have to. African Americans believe that Barack many who put their faith in Jackson, speaks a lot about the state of America, A lot of people have given out Obama is the right man for the job many and many see the same potential pattern but its true nonetheless. the Bradley Effect when a voter says of those same people feel like he doesn’t happening with Obama. As for now, it looks like Obama they’ll vote for a non-white candidate have a real chance of winning. Thus, many voters turn to the next has managed to shed the problem. His only to turn around and vote for the Whether it be a lack of trust in the best thing; someone they know has a approval rating amongst African Ameri- white candidate. Electoral College, or a lack of trust in better chance of winning with their vote cans has been on the rise since his strong While the Bradley Effect may America itself, many African American even if that candidate doesn’t necessar- second place showing in New Hampshire play a role in Obamas’ presidential run, voters feel that if they put their vote ily match their political beliefs. and Nevada. Many analysts categorize I believe there is a greater problem on on Obama something would ultimately Now of course this doesn’t apply Obama as a strong candidate. the horizon; being the divided African happen and he wouldn’t win. to all African Americans. Some, includ- Only time will tell if Obama can American stance on whether to vote for For example, many remember Jes- ing me, believe that Obama has the real deliver the “change” America so desper- someone history tells us won’t win. se Jackson’s 1988 run for the democratic support to win the democratic ticket. ately needs, but its up to all Americans Most political correspondents ticket. The polls taken during that time Many remember the glory days, scratch to accept and embrace that change.
!e Islamic Cultural Center of Fresno the lecture will address these Presents: key points: islam and justice • Environmental degradation is a consequence of human injustice towards the nature. At its core, environmental crises are an extension what does islam teach about justice? of our spiritual and moral decay. • Economic injustice has created widespread poverty around the world. A lecture by Hamid Entezam !ere is no longer just a gap between the rich and the poor- it is a gulf. Poverty will contribute significantly to social unrest, political violence Friday, February 1, 2008 - 7:00 p.m. and terrorism. Islamic Cultural Center of Fresno • Peace is not attainable without justice. It is a dangerous illusion to think that military force will deliver international peace and security. 2111 E. Nees Ave. at Maple !e underlying injustices and grievances pushing the disenchanted www.icfresno.org / 559.297.9535 towards violence must be addressed. w e l
o • Weapons of mass destruction (WMD) condemn the world to live in l p l a i fear. Justice requires that we abandon our double standards and M W Free selective approach to who can and cannot have WMDs. 41 Shepherd Admission • Democracy and human rights are hallmarks of social justice. Nees Limited Hamid Entezam Herndon Seating January 23, 2008 Rampage 13 14 Rampage News January 23, 2007 Sociology Department’s Candidate Forum Offers Varied PERSPECTIVES by Adrine Avanesyan Rampage Reporter For Your The Fresno City College Information sociology department hosted the What is a Libertarian? 2008 Presidential Campaign Fo- Libertarians are stated to be- rum Jan. 13. The crowded table lieve in, and pursue, personal of candidates and representatives freedom while maintaining tackled issues ranging from health personal responsibility. Lib- care, the war in Iraq, taxation, and ertarians strongly oppose the economy. any government interfering In an interview prior to the in their personal, family and event, Gerry Bill from the sociolo- business decisions. gy department said, “This is an op- Are Libertarians liberal or portunity for people to learn about conservative? the candidates who are going to be Libertarians are neither. Un- on the ballot.” Bill also went on to like liberals or conservatives, say that the purpose of education Libertarians advocate a high is to train students to be citizens. degree of both personal and Without informed citizens, we can economic liberty. not have a democracy. Source: www.lp.org Media interviews were held What is the Independent from an hour prior to the actual Party? forum. The candidates and repre- The Independent party sentatives took their seats around believes in focusing on the oval table. The political tension American problems first and could have been cut with a knife. Photos by Blake Gollmer foremost, Reducing immigra- What was originally de- tion, stopping all government signed for one on one interviews subsidies to illegal aliens, quickly grew into a roundtable terminating international discussion. During the interview, trade agreements. the representatives squared off on Is the Independent Party divisive issues and echoed the sen- liberal or conservative? timents of their respected party. Conservative. Many of their Missing from the media beliefs and policies, such as interview were the representatives protecting the right to life, for Clinton, Obama, Kucinich, upholding traditional mar- McCain, and Don Grundmann riage and family values can from the American Independent be considered conservative. Party. Source: www.usiap.org The war in Iraq was an What is the Peace and Free- unavoidable topic and seemed to dom party? be at the center of attention. The party promotes social George Phillies from the and economic justice, true Libertarian Party vowed that as democracy, peace, full em- commander in chief, he would end ployment, racial and ethnic the war in Iraq. equality, environmentalism, According to Phillies, mov- feminism, socialism, gay ing the troops out would not be a rights, workers’ rights, and la- problem, the real issue would be bor unions through co-opera- moving all the supplies out of Iraq. tion rather than competition. He said that moving the supplies Is the Peace and Freedom out truckload by truckload would party liberal or conserva- take three to six months. Top: Richard Becker of the Peace and Freedom party was one of the more vocal representatives. Above: tive? Stuart Weil, representative Student attend the forum. Since 1974, the Peace and for Rudy Giuliani gave a rebuttal been telling people in this country. responses. Stewart A. Alexander, sonal responsibility. Wayte said, Freedom Party platform has to Phillies by saying, “The general Becker also made it clear that like from the Peace and Freedom Party, “It is not that Ron Paul does not been feminist and socialist. view that the Republicans and Iraq and Iran were not a threat to is running for Vice President on a want a safety net, we just want to Its understanding of social- Giuliani especially is to maintain the United States. joint ticket with Brian Moore. make the holes a little bigger.” ism includes a socialist the great nation that we have and “You would think that it On the issue of healthcare Phillies’ proposal for re- economy, where industries, we must realize that we are still at was Iran that had 750 bases around Alexander said, “We need to ducing health care costs was to financial institutions, and war with an enemy that wants to the world. You would think that it develop a universal health care eliminate cost transfers. natural resources are owned see us destroyed.” was Iran that had a military budget system where it is not privatized He said, “If Congress wants by the people as a whole and The only thing that would of this year of 800 billion dollars,” but make certain that the govern- to say emergency rooms should democratically managed by guarantee safety to the people said Becker. ment is responsible for taking care provide health care then Congress the people who work in them of the United States would be to Weil from the Giuliani of that.” should pay for it.” Becker said that and use them. make sure that the world becomes camp mentioned President Bush’s Steve Wayte, representa- health care is sold as a commodity Source: www.peaceandfree- more like America, Weil said. plan to end fascism by bringing tive for Republican candidate and that the maximization of profit dom.org Weil’s comment aroused Democracy around the world. Ron Paul, gave a very different is driving the cost of health care anger in Richard Becker, represen- Becker responded by say- perspective. through the roof. against the American people. He tative for Gloria E. La Riva of the ing, “The U.S. needs to get out of According to Wayte, Ron Furthermore, Muir Mat- believed that eliminating taxation Peace and Freedom Party. Iraq now, they never should have Paul was not about the New Deal teson, representative for Steve was the answer to the health care “That is a clear Imperialist gone in, it was an illegal invasion because, he believes, the New Deal Kubby of the Libertarian party issue. viewpoint of wanting to dominate based on lies, based on doing what has bankrupted this country. brought an alternative perspective Another representative the world and we shape the world Giuliani and all the Republicans Wayte made it clear that to the table. arguing for the elimination of taxes and make it look like the U.S,” are doing now which is invoking the Ron Paul campaign did not His answer to all topics was David Schmidt, representative Becker said. fear among the population to gain support government funding for at hand seemed to be “end the for Republican candidate Mike He went on to say that the support for what are unjustifiable social programs such as welfare violence.” Huckabee. United States needs to get out of ends.” or health care. According to Matteson, Schmidt said that Huckabee Iraq and that the view that was Healthcare was another His answer to solving pov- taxation was an example of how was for the Fair Tax, which would presented by Weil depicted the topic that brought about different erty in the United States was per- the government initiates violence eliminate all income tax, corporate lies that the Republicans have January 23, 2007 News Rampage 15
Photo by Joseph Rios ASG offers loans to cover the cost of books by Ivette Lopez views the funds available, and Rampage Reporter gives out as many loans as their Above: Stuart Weil, funds allow. representing Rudy How do you buy books for Each student is given a Giuliani, delivers his classes after you have maxed out credit of $100.00 at the bookstore openining statement at your financial aid availability or within 48 hours after approval for the Candidate Forum on your check hasn’t come in yet? the loan, and the individual can Jan 13. What if your boss doesn’t simply head directly to purchase Right: A Libertarian pay you until the following week books without having to cash a supporter listens as the but you need your books now? check. forum proceeds. For those lucky 70 students that “I think this that [the ASG Photos by Blake Gollmer received the Associated Student book loan] is great. It’s a posi- Government book loan, their stress tive offer that the ASG is giving was alleviated a bit for the first between paychecks and financial weeks of the semester. aid,” said College Activities rep- Funded by the ASG at Fres- resentative MayLee Glover. no City College, the ASG student However, the ASG student Clinton, McCain reps bore crowd book loan is a monetary loan of book loan is still a loan, therefore $100 made available each semester all students who received one this Continued from page 14 All of the representatives voters what they have to offer. on a first come, first serve basis. semester must pay the school back tax, social security tax and put all and the candidates took their turns One member of the audience Although all the loans have no later than March 7. that onto a single consumption tax. introducing themselves and their was Teresa Patterson, Executive been given out for this spring 2008, Those who receive finan- With this fair tax system, we would platforms. Director of Public and Legislative students can apply at the end of this cial aid can make arrangements be taxed 23 percent for every dol- It seemed that the majority Relations for the State Center Com- semester for the following term if to simply deduct the cost to pay lar that we spend. of the audience members were munity College Distict. She said that they are enrolled in at least 9 units, back the loan directly from their Phillies called for an end independent party supporters. she was attending the forum not as a are in good standing with an over- next check. Students interested to the $9 trillion grandchild tax There were a lot of cheers representative for the district but as an all GPA of 2.0, and have a current are asked to visit College Activi- - the national debt. He said, “We and praises shouted out for Repub- undecided voter. Patterson also said student ID from the school. ties to apply for this loan for the spent the money, we sent the bill lican candidate Ron Paul. It was that the forum was, “fantastic.” College Activities then re- semesters to come. to kids who have not even been interesting that most of the major born yet.” candidates like McCain, Hillary, As an array of topics was and Giuliani did not get much of being thrown on the table and a reaction from the audience. the discussion grew even more Toward the last hour of the intense, Bill informed us that the forum, audience members were actual forum was about to begin. In allowed to ask questions. the midst of the discussions of the The representatives that Iraq war and health care, everyone seemed to be well versed on their had forgotten that the real forum candidates were Wayte for Ron had not even begun. Paul, Will Tranquilli for Den- The representatives and nis Kucinich, Woods-Jones for the candidates took their seats in Obama, and Becker for Gloria E. a vertical arrangement of tables La Riva. Phillies, Grundmann, and facing an auditorium of FCC stu- Alexander represented themselves dents, faculty, and members of the well. community. Audience frustration Moderator Kehinde Sol- seemed to grow towards Clinton wazi, an African American Studies representative Jennifer Reimer instructor at FCC opened the floor who seemed to be thrown off by to debate. most questions. During the debate, much of Dennis Kucinich supporter the same issues discussed during Kelly Borkert was frustrated by the interviews were debated. One Reimer’s inability to answer some of the key moments of the forum fundamental questions. was when Becker from the Gloria When Kelly asked Reimer E. La Riva campaign accused about Clinton’s connection to Republican candidate Ron Paul of Wal-Mart, Reimer’s response was being a racist. that she would have to get more At this comment a woman information and get back to him. from the audience stood up and It seemed to Reimer’s response shouted, “Ron Paul is the only to many other questions was the patriot!” same. Dezi Woods-Jones, rep- As the forum came to an resentative for Barack Obama end, everyone seemed to appreci- seemed to know how to rouse the ate the opportunity that Fresno crowd with her great speaking City College and the sociology skills. department had given the students On the other hand, Brian and members of the community. Forrest who was representing This forum also gave the John McCain seemed to bore the third party candidates, who are of- crowd by answering every ques- ten overlooked, an opportunity to tion strictly from note cards. voice their opinions and show the News January 23, 2007 16 Quick Reference Guide Establishes independent community college districts and Board of Governors. PROPOSITION Funding for K-12 and 13-14 separate. Sets fees at $15/unit and limits future increases. Increased state spending on Gift? Or Curse? K-14 averaging about $300 by Pedro Quintana Opponents of the proposi- million annually. potential Rampage Reporter tion are saying that 92 comes at a loss in community college bad time. It will lower the cost of student fee revenues of about California Voters have a units for community colleges but $70 million annually. very important decision to make will leave the state short changed What Your Vote Means on Feb 5, 2008. Californians are from revenues, it is not what Cali- voting for the Presidential Candi- fornia needs at the moment. It is nia schools. spokesperson said that the UC’s Yes: Existing K-14 funding date, also Propositions.There are unnecessary due to the California Proposition 92 will call strongly support California’s formula will replaced with seven propositions in the ballot. Governor Arnold Schwarzeneg- for nearly a billion92 dollars in new community colleges. They are an separate formulas for K-12 For community college students ger. spending in the first three years, important partner in the state’s and community colleges. the one that stands out is proposi- Proposition 92 stands to but includes no way to pay for this higher educational system. The UC Community College fees will tion 92. lower the cost of education fees expenditure, opponents say. depends on the transfer functions drop from $20 per unit to $15 Proposition 92 is a measure from $20.00 to $15.00 per unit. Politicians will have to for nearly a third of it undergradu- per unit and various changes that will make major changes to It will also put a hold on states come up with ways to decide to get ate students. Still, all segments of will be made to the state level the state of the California constitu- authority to increase fee levels in the funds for Proposition 92. Uni- california’s are funded adequately community college governing tion and to the state laws relating the future years. versities fear that the legislature and this proposition stands to en- board. to the California’s Community California has the lowest could get it from the California danger that, they said. No: Existing laws regarding Colleges. community college cost per units State University and University of The UC board of regents community college funding, Proposition 92’s main goals in the nation. Many feel that this California systems. opposed Proposition 92 because fees, and governence whould are to change the current minimum is proposition is unnecessary to the The UC newsroom says the initiative could lock up more be unchanged education funding requirement state. According to the state leg- “Students planning to transfer of the state budgets, leaving less Pro: Proposition 92 does into two separate account funds, islative analyst about one fourth to a UC or a CSU could end up state general fund money avail- not raise taxes. It lowers one for the K-12 grade schools and of community college students paying for the proposition 92 in able for discreationary purposes, community college fees to one for all Community Colleges. pay no education fees at all. They the future”. including programs such as UC $15 a unit, limits future fee “High school teachers care also found that 52 percent of the Assembly Speaker Fabian and guarantees or mandates. increases, and stabilizes about what happens to our stu- full-time California community Nunez said “Proposition 92 while David A. Sanchez the Presi- funding. When the Legis- dents after they graduate,” high college students have their fees it is well-intended, it does not help dent of the California Teachers lature doubled community school teacher Josh Pechthalt, waived due to financial need. us achieve our goal of ensuring Association says “Proposition 92 college fees, 305,000 fewer vice-president of United Teachers The Californian for Fair all students have a chance to go is not what it seems. It would cause Californians enrolled. Los Angeles said on the propents Education Funding is opposing to college,” said Nunez. “Prop 92 more problems than it could ever Con: 92 is not what it website. “UTLA supports Propo- Proposition 92. They say it will does nothing to help low-income solve. The question before voters seems. It locks huge new sition 92 because it keeps K-12 bring in no new funds into the students with costs at all and the is not whether community colleges spending into California’s funding guarantees in place while state, but will continue to drain flawed financing approach to are important. We are all strong Constitution with no way ensuring a baseline of support for $ 70 million per year from K-14 Proposition 92 could negatively supporters of our community to pay for it, which could community colleges. Prop 92 is the funding in the future. impact students who seek to con- college system. Instead, the real result in new taxes or cuts to Prop 98 for community colleges. The organization says this tinue their education at a four year question is whether California can critical programs, including It’s a win-win for K-12 and com- will only put the state a giant step university.” afford to lock a huge new spending K-12 schools. munity colleges.” backwards on funding for Califor- Brandy Nikaido, a UC- mandate.” Tips for Top Newbies Nurse’s Psych 5Escort Free Job Office Services Service Internet Placement
1If you checked your regis- 2Dr Brian Olowude is the 3Now, before anyone gets 4Free Internet Wireless net- 5Looking for a job? Shawn tration receipt thoroughly, you may clinical psychologist and supervi- too excited, this is a police escort work is available in many build- Henderson, Coordinator of Em- have noticed an additional $17.00 sor of the five clinicians available service for students who would ings and everywhere outside, ployment Resource center said that fee. This fee covers all student to students at no cost. Students like to be walked to their car safely said Network Coordinator, Harry over 2,557 community businesses health care for the semester, and is can “Be tested for anxiety, rela- - not a dating service. Zalis. “All that is required of the seek to employ college students one of the top ten recourses offered tionship problems, and receive This idea was originally student is that they have an anti- At FCC. on campus at no additional cost. anger management,” said Linda geared for the night students and virus software on their computer “There are over 5,000 The nurses station has moved from “It’s short term problem solving students are advised to make their with a definition that is up to date” openings available on our web the bungalows into the student therapy and not meant to replace request before class ends. he added. site ,”said Henerson. “Over 1,000 services building next to the web other therapy’s students may be “It’s a good idea to call a The buildings that receive jobs are being recruited by the IRS room, #112. On their website they receiving from a private mental little ahead of time so that if the the network inside are the library, alone.” list services such as hearing, vi- health facility.” Although six ses- officer is busy, your not waiting too Businesses Ed, the cafeteria, The employment resource sion, and blood pressure screening, sions are available, Albright said long,” advised Lt. Richard Gaines and the forum hall. Students can center is located in the library as well as pregnancy tests. that most students resolve their of the Campus Police Dept. “There study outside in the grass area building, room 147. OFFICE HOURS: problems by the third visit, and are signs posted and the number and outside the cafeteria. A map Log on to: www.jobs.fresnocity- M-TH 8a.m. - 5p.m. (closed 12- session are provided in a separate is on the phones pretty much in of locations are on blackboard. college.edu. 1p.m.daily) office located above the bookstore every class,” said Gains in regard (www.blackboard.fresnocitycol- Fri 8a.m. - 4p.m. (closed 12- by the Rampage office, in room to requesting an escort. lege.edu). Got a tip? Send it to the Ram- 1p.m. daily) 216. For an appointment call Campus Police 442-8201 If you have problems con- page: rampage-editor@fresnoci- Health Services 442-8268 necting, see the tutorial lab. tycollege.edu